Red Tide Found At All 16 Sarasota County Beaches: DOH

SARASOTA COUNTY, FL — Red tide levels remain present at all 16 Sarasota County beaches, according to a Florida Department of Health news release.

In samples taken Monday, the harmful algal blooms were found at the following beaches:

• North Lido Beach
• Lido Casino Beach
• South lido Beach
• Siesta Key Beach
• Turtle Beach
• Nokomis Beach
• North Jetty Beach
• Venice Beach
• Service Club Beach
• Venice Fishing Pier
• Brohard Beach
• Casperson Beach
• Manasota Key Beach
• Blind Pass Beach
• Longboat Key Beach
• Bird Key Park/Ringling Causeway

While current red tide cell counts remain at low to medium levels, some people may have mild and short-lived respiratory symptoms, such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, similar to those associated with the common cold or seasonal sinus allergies, the agency said.

Some people with existing breathing problems, such as asthma, might experience more severe effects.

Symptoms usually stop when a person leaves the beach or goes indoors, FDOH said.

Health officials recommend that people who are sensitive to red tide or experiencing symptoms avoid the beach or go into an air-conditioned space.

Those visiting these beaches should stay away from the water and any dead fish they might see, the FDOH advised. Pets and livestock should also be kept away from the water, sea foam and dead sea life.

The agency also advises against harvesting or eating molluscan shellfish or distressed or dead fish. If fish are healthy, rinse fillets with tap or bottled water and throw out the guts.

Health effects caused by exposure to red tide can be reported to Florida Poison Control Centers by calling 888-222-1222. Those experiencing continuing symptoms should also contact their health care provider.

The toxins can also affect the central nervous system of fish and other marine life, leading to fish kills. Report fish kills to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute via the FWC Reporter App, calling 800-636-0511 or online.