The Florida Department of Health in Lee County has issued a red tide health alert for Boca Grande Pass.
According to DOH-Lee, red tide is an algae bloom that is caused by high concentrations of toxin-producing algae that typically forms naturally offshore.
The algae that causes red tide produces potent neurotoxins which can be harmful to humans, pets, and animals.
The toxins can also be released into the air which can cause varying degrees of eye, skin, and respiratory irritation.
This health alert is in response to a water sample taken on Tuesday, Nov. 12, that alerted the DOH to the presence of red tide near Boca Grande Pass.
Residents are advised to take the following precautions:
- Look for informational signage posted at most public beaches and/or check current water quality status at Protecting Florida Together .
- Do not wade or swim in or around red tide. Red tide can cause skin irritation, rashes, and burning/sore eyes.
- 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.
- Remain cautious and stay away from this location, especially if you have chronic respiratory conditions.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
For additional information on potential health effects of algae blooms, visit the Florida Department of Health's harmful algae blooms webpage .
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