Department of Health issues red tide alert for Bowman’s Beach

The Florida Department of Health in Lee County has issued a health alert for red tide near Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel.

The health alert is due to a water sample taken on Jan. 27.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission‘s red tide map lists a high concentration of red tide on the beach.

WINK News reporter Sommer Senne visited the beach on Friday and reported signs from the Department of Health listing the presence of red tide.

The Department of Health says people should avoid swimming or wading in or around red tide.

Red tide can cause skin irritation, rashes and burning or sore eyes.

It’s also recommended that you wash your skin and clothing with soap and fresh water if you have recently been exposed to red tide, especially if your skin is easily irritated.

Beachgoers are advised to remain cautious and stay away from the area, especially for those who have chronic respiratory conditions.

Beachgoer Andreas Gunther told WINK News reporter Jolena Esperto that he is being cautious.

“That’s a bit irritating. The only place I have looked at the first place is just the top end, and I saw a no water quality advisory at this time, and then after, actually, you were standing in front of it, I saw that there is a second advice which is exactly the opposite, and that makes me a bit nervous,” Gunther said.

High concentrations of red tide are also currently on Marco Island’s beaches.