On Jan. 31, the Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) issued a health alert for the presence of red tide near Lighthouse Beach on Sanibel, as well as Cayo Costa (offshore, 16 miles west of mainland), Lynn Hall Park, and Bokeelia (offshore, three miles north of Charlotte Harbor). The alert was based on water samples collected on Jan. 28 and 29.
The public is advised to exercise caution in and around affected areas and follow these precautions:
- Check water quality updates at Protecting Florida Together or look for informational signage at local beaches.
- Avoid swimming or wading in red tide-affected waters, as exposure can cause skin irritation, rashes, and eye discomfort.
- Wash exposed skin and clothing with soap and fresh water if contact with red tide occurs, especially for individuals with sensitive skin.
- Minimize exposure to airborne toxins by avoiding affected areas, particularly if you have chronic respiratory conditions.
- Close windows and use air conditioning in beachside residences, ensuring that filters are properly maintained.
- Do not consume molluscan shellfish or affected fish. Finfish caught in healthy conditions are safe to eat if properly cleaned and filleted.
- Keep pets and livestock away from red tide-affected waters and dead marine life. Wash pets with soap and water if they swim in contaminated waters.
What is Red Tide?
Red tide is caused by Karenia brevis (K. brevis), a toxin-producing dinoflagellate found in the Gulf of Mexico. It typically forms offshore in late summer or early fall and is carried into coastal waters by wind and currents. At high concentrations, K. brevis can discolor water, giving it a reddish-brown hue. Learn more at Protecting Florida Together.
Is Red Tide Harmful?
K. brevis produces brevetoxins, which can be harmful to humans, pets, fish, and wildlife. Wind and wave action can release these toxins into the air, causing varying degrees of eye, skin, and respiratory irritation. Sensitive individuals, including children, the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic respiratory conditions, may experience more severe symptoms. For further health impact information, visit the Florida Department of Health.
Where to Find Current Water Quality Information
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regularly monitors and analyzes red tide samples statewide. Up-to-date information about water quality and public health alerts for harmful algae blooms can be accessed at Protecting Florida Together.
Receive notifications on water quality changes in your area by subscribing at Protecting Florida Together.
To hear recorded updates on red tide conditions, call the statewide toll-free hotline at 866-300-9399.
For licensed shellfish harvesting status, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Where to Report Red Tide-Related Issues
- Human health concerns: Report symptoms from exposure to harmful algae blooms to the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222.
- Animal health concerns: If a pet appears ill after contact with red tide-affected water, consult a veterinarian immediately.
- Fish kills: Report dead, diseased, or abnormally behaving fish or wildlife to the FWC at FWC Fish Kill Hotline or call 800-636-0511.
For additional health questions regarding red tide, contact DOH-Lee at 239-252-8200.
