State health officials are warning red tide is present at the beach near Seagate in Collier County and beachgoers should be cautious if they have health issues.
The presence of red tide at Seagate follows a similar advisory water sample testing finding red tide in late October at Marco Island and in North Naples at Barefoot Beach and at Wiggins Pass, according to the state Health Department in Collier County.
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 Dec. 5 confirmed red tide at Seagate based on water sampling.
Red tide typically forms naturally offshore, commonly in late summer or early fall, and is carried into coastal waters by winds and currents.
Dead fish washed up along Bonita Beach due to red tide on Aug. 1, 2018. This red tide bloom has been along the Southwest Florida coast since October 2017.
At high enough concentrations, the algae can discolor water and give it a red or brown hue.
Is red tide harmful? It can be
The algaeproduces 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: Gov. DeSantis signs bill in Naples to continue tech initiative to fight red tide
Here are symptoms:
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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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Look for informational signage posted at most public beaches and/or check current water quality status at Protecting Florida Together.
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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 this location, 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 harmful algae blooms webpage at floridahealth.gov/environmental-health/aquatic-toxins/harmful-algae-blooms/index.html)
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Presence of red tide algae typical in fall in Southwest Florida