State health officials are warning red tide is present at the Naples Pier and beachgoers should be cautious if they have health issues.
Red tide is caused by high concentrations of a toxin-producing microscopic algae, called K. brevis, that is found in the Gulf of Mexico.
Tests conducted Jan. 2 at the popular Collier County beach attraction confirmed red tide based on water sampling.
In December, the health department reported red tide was present along Marco Island, Seagate beach and other areas of the county before clearing. It also had been present offshore of Sanibel Island in December.
Views along the beach of Gulf Shore Boulevard in Naples in December 2024 include evening winter clouds, sunsets, decorated palm trees, twisting spooky expressive trees, a broken Naples Pier, beach ends still damaged from recent hurricanes.
Red tide typically forms naturally offshore, commonly in late summer or early fall, and is carried into coastal waters by winds and currents.
At high enough concentrations, the algae can discolor water and give it a red or brown hue.
Red tide usually goes away after a few days or so, and the health department will conduct new testing and lift the advisory once they determine the level of algae has gone down.
More: Beach walking in Southwest Florida? Be aware of noxious red tide
Is red tide harmful? It can be
The algae produces potent toxins that can be harmful to people, fish, and it can kill pets.
Children, the elderly, anyone who is immunocompromised or with chronic respiratory conditions may be at risk of experiencing more severe symptoms.
More: Red tide found at South Marco Beach. What to know
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Respiratory symptoms: Coughing, sneezing, runny nose, wheezing, or shortness of breath. These symptoms can be temporary, but people with chronic respiratory conditions should be especially careful.
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Eye irritation: Teary eyes.
What precautions should I follow?
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Do not wade or swim in or around red tide. Red tide can cause skin irritation, rashes, and burning/sore eyes.
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Wash your skin and clothing with soap and fresh water if you have had recent contact with red tide, especially if your skin is easily irritated.
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Remain cautious and stay away from locations with red tide, especially if you have chronic respiratory conditions.
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Residents living in beach areas are advised to close windows and run the air conditioner. Make sure the air conditioner filter is maintained according to manufacturer’s specifications.
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Do not harvest or eat molluscan shellfish or distressed or dead fish from this location. If caught alive and healthy, finfish are safe to eat as long as they are filleted, and the guts are discarded. Rinse fillets with tap or bottled water.
For additional information on potential health effects of algae blooms, visit the Florida Department of Health’s website at https://www.floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/aquatic-toxins/harmful-algae-blooms/index.html
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Anyone with respiratory ailments should stay away from Naples Pier