Red Tide Reported At Sarasota County Beaches: FL Dept. Of Health

Red tide is caused by high concentrations of a toxin-producing dinoflagellate called Karenia brevis (K. brevis), a type of microscopic algae found in the Gulf of Mexico, according to FDOH.

K. brevis produces potent neurotoxins (brevotoxins) that can be harmful to humans, pets, fish and wildlife. Wind and wave action can break open K. brevis cells and release toxins into the air.

"The public should exercise caution in and around" these areas, especially people with chronic respiratory conditions, the agency said.

Residents living in beach areas are advised to close their windows and run the air conditioner.

People also shouldn't harvest or eat molluscan shellfish or distressed or dead fish from these locations. If caught alive and healthy, finfish are safe to eat as long as they are fileted and the guts are discarded. Rinse filets with tap or bottled water.

Dead, diseased, or abnormally behaving fish or wildlife should be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission online or at 800-636-0511.

Report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algae bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center by calling 800-222-1222 to speak to a poison specialist.

Red tide can cause illness and death of other animals, such as pets and livestock. Keep animals away and out of the water and sea life and away from dead marine life. If your pet swims in waters with red tide, wash them with soap and water as soon as possible, FDOH said.

Contact your veterinarian if you believe your pet has become ill after consuming or having contact with red tide contaminated water.