UPDATE: Spectrum Bay News 9 reporter Angie Angers traveled up and down the beaches near Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island but found no sign of red tide.
Lifeguards said, while the bloom was obvious on Thursday, winds shifted on Friday and the irritant is no longer in the air.
Check back for further updates.
ORIGINAL STORY:
People with respiratory issues might experience severe symptoms from a red tide bloom in Manatee County.
What You Need To Know
- Low levels of red tide have been found in Manatee County
- Areas near Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island are affected
- 🔻 List of symptoms and recommendations from health officials 🔻
That’s the warning from the Florida Department of Health after water samples collected by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission indicated “low levels” of the irritant near Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island.
As a result, a red tide advisory has been issued.
The health department says the following “mild and short-lived” eye , nose and throat irritation — similar to symptoms of the common cold — are possible for people exposed to the bloom.
Officials say anyone who experiences those symptoms should avoid the beach areas or stay in air-conditioned places.
Other recommendations include:
Not swimming near dead fish
Avoiding impacted locations if you have chronic respiratory problems
Keeping pets and livestock away from dead sea life
Close windows and run your air conditioner if you live near the bloom
Wear a paper filter mask
Anyone who has been exposed to red tide can contact the Florida Poison Control Centers for more information at (888) 232-8635.
The latest information on red tide blooms can be found on FWC’s website.
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