Red tide not found

Last updated on April 18th, 2025 at 06:28 pm

During the week ending April 18, the red tide organism karenia brevis was still laying low with only one sample collected containing background levels of the unhealthy algae.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, K. brevis was observed at background concentrations in one sample from Okaloosa County in Florida’s Panhandle. The sample was taken at James Lee Beach in Destin.

There were no recent reports of fish kills or respiratory infection related to red tide in James Lee Beach or anywhere in the state.

For additional information, view the Northwest Coast report and map.

Test results

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For reports of current conditions at individual beaches, go to this Interactive map with beach-by-beach detail.

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Red tide FAQ

What is Red Tide? Common name for harmful algal blooms occurring along coastal regions in Florida from large concentrations of aquatic micro-organisms, specifically an organism called karenia brevis. Bloom events are stimulated by nutrients from terrestrial runoff containing fertilizer, sewage and livestock wastes.

Should I avoid red tide? Toxins from red tide can cause breathing problems and irritate your eyes, nose and throat. Reactions to red tide are worse for people with asthma, emphysema, bronchitis or any chronic lung disease. If you have health issues, stay away from areas with red tide. Pets can become sick from red tide, so keep them away from those areas, as well as contaminated marine animals and fish.

Can we swim near red tide? Don’t swim in or around red tide because the toxin can cause skin irritation, rashes and burning and sore eyes.

What should I do if I come in contact with Red Tide? Wash off with soap and water. You can get relief from respiratory symptoms by being in an air-conditioned space. For people without asthma or chronic respiratory problems, over-the-counter antihistamines can help. If your symptoms don’t get better, see a doctor.

Red tide “can cause illness and death” of pets, according to state health officials.

What about the dead fish on the beach? Red tides kill fish and other marine life — avoid contact and don’t swim or walk in areas with dead fish. Keep your pets away from these areas. Don’t harvest or eat distressed or dead fish (or any animals) from or near a red tide. Fish caught live and healthy can be eaten if filleted and rinsed thoroughly with fresh water.

Are shellfish affected by Red Tide? Crabs, lobsters, shrimp, clams, oysters and scallops are filter feeders that can concentrate toxins. These and other shellfish, if harvested from red tide areas, may be contaminated.

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Additional Resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Florida Department of Health
• Protecting Florida Together
• Florida Poison Control Information Center

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