The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County (DOH-Hillsborough) is waving a red flag about red tide blooms affecting beaches near Tampa Bay, including Mullet Key, North Skyway Fishing Pier, and Beacon Key. The warning comes after water samples taken last Friday show high concentrations of the harmful algal bloom. The DOH-Hillsborough is urging residents and visitors to exercise care.
For those planning a stroll or dip near these parts of the bay, consider a change of plans. Red tide is notorious for causing a spectrum of unpleasant effects, from skin irritation to stinging eyes. The DOH-Hillsborough's advisory, published yesterday, explicitly states, "Do not wade or swim in or around red tide." Anyone foolhardy enough to have romped in these waters should wash their skin and clothes with fresh water.
With red tide's respiratory irritants in the air, individuals with chronic lung conditions should steer clear of these areas. Homeowners in the vicinity are advised to keep windows closed and air conditioners running—filters kept in tip-top shape, according to the manufacturer. In something straight from a maritime horror show, local marine life, particularly molluscan shellfish and sickly fish, should not be harvested or consumed, a literal matter of life and death.
Moreover, residents with furry friends are warned to keep their pets at a safe distance from the beach and any deceased sea creatures dotting the shoreline, which could pose a serious health risk. If by chance, playing fetch lands Fido in tainted waters, DOH-Hillsborough advises that the pet is washed promptly with soap and water to prevent any harmful effects from the red tide exposure.
Overall, the message from the health authorities is unequivocal: red tide poses a tangible risk to health for both humans and animals, and caution should be exercised in all activities near the affected areas. Keep abreast of the red tide status by visiting the Protecting Florida Together website, where updates on water quality and public health advisories are regularly posted for community awareness and safety.
