A red tide is a higher than normal concentration of certain, microscopic algae.
In Florida, it is caused by Karenia brevis, a species of algae that occurs naturally in the Gulf of Mexico.
During a red tide, beach visitors may experience respiratory irritation, such as an itchy throat or coughing.
This occurs even out of the water as breaking waves can release red tide brevatoxins into the air.
People with chronic respiratory illnesses are especially sensitive to red tide
and should avoid beaches that have significant blooms.
Anyone should seek medical attention if their red tide symptoms do not subside.
Red tide can, similarly, affect pets.
Red tide blooms typically last for days or weeks but can last longer.
However, the location of blooms changes frequently,
so, if one beach has a red tide bloom, another nearby beach may not.
You can report illnesses from red tide exposure to Florida's Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
To learn more about red tide, visit Florida Health.gov.