DUVAL COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Duval County has issued back-to-back health alerts after red tide was detected at two locations along the county’s coastline within less than a week.
The latest alert covers the area near Kingsley Plantation, north of the Fort George River, following a water sample collected Aug. 11.
A previous alert was issued for the Fort George Inlet area after a sample taken Aug. 6. Residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution in and around both affected areas.
What to do if you’re near the affected areas
Anyone near either impacted location should look for informational signage posted at most public beaches or check current water quality status at Protecting Florida Together. The public is advised not to wade or swim in or around red tide, as it can cause skin irritation, rashes, and burning or 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,” the department advises.
People with chronic respiratory conditions should stay away from the affected areas entirely. Residents living near the beach are encouraged to close windows and run the air conditioner, making sure filters are maintained according to manufacturer specifications.
When it comes to seafood, the public should not harvest or eat molluscan shellfish or any distressed or dead fish from either location. If finfish are caught alive and healthy, they are safe to eat as long as they are filleted and the guts are discarded — fillets should be rinsed with tap or bottled water.
Red tide can also pose a danger to animals. Pets and livestock should be kept out of the water and away from any sea life or dead marine animals. If a pet swims in affected waters, owners should wash them with soap and water as soon as possible.
What is red tide?
Red tide is caused by high concentrations of a toxin-producing organism called Karenia brevis, a type of microscopic algae found in the Gulf of Mexico. It typically forms naturally offshore — commonly in late summer or early fall — and is carried into coastal waters by winds and currents. At high concentrations, it can discolor water, giving it a red or brown hue.
Why is red tide harmful?
Karenia brevis produces potent neurotoxins called brevetoxins that can be harmful to humans, pets, fish, and wildlife. Wind and wave action can break open the algae cells and release those toxins into the air, making it important to monitor conditions even if you’re not in the water. People can experience varying degrees of eye, skin, and respiratory irritation. Sensitive groups — including children, the elderly, those who are immunocompromised, and those with chronic respiratory conditions — may face more severe symptoms.
How to stay informed
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission routinely collects and analyzes red tide samples from around the state. Up-to-date information on Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications for harmful algae blooms and beach conditions is available at Protecting Florida Together. Residents can also subscribe to receive notifications when water quality changes in their area.
To hear a recorded update on red tide conditions statewide, call the toll-free hotline at 866-300-9399. For local licensed shellfish harvesting status, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services website.
[CLICK HERE TO SEE MAP OF CURRENT RED TIDE SAMPLES]
How to report red tide-related concerns
Anyone experiencing symptoms from exposure to a harmful algae bloom or aquatic toxin should contact the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222 to speak with a poison specialist.
Pet owners who believe their animal has become ill after contact with red tide-contaminated water should contact their veterinarian.
Dead, diseased, or abnormally behaving fish or wildlife should be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission online or by calling 800-636-0511.
For other health questions or concerns related to red tide, contact DOH-Duval at 904-253-1280.