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A red tide is a higher than normal
concentration of certain, microscopic algae.

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In Florida, it is caused by Karenia brevis, a species of algae that occurs naturally in the Gulf of Mexico.

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During a red tide, beach visitors may experience respiratory irritation, such as an itchy throat or coughing.

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This occurs even out of the water as breaking waves can release red tide brevatoxins into the air.

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People with chronic respiratory illnesses are especially sensitive to red tide

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and should avoid beaches that have significant blooms.

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Anyone should seek medical attention if their red tide symptoms do not subside.

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Red tide can, similarly, affect pets.

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Red tide blooms
typically last for days or weeks but can last longer.

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However, the location of
blooms changes frequently,

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so, if one beach has a red tide bloom, another nearby beach may not.

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You can report illnesses from red tide exposure to Florida's Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

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To learn more about red tide, visit Florida Health.gov.