Harmful Algal Blooms

Florida has experienced multiple harmful algal blooms during the past several years of two predominant types of Florida red tides occur in the Gulf of Mexico and are due to proliferation of the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis which produces a suite of highly irritative compounds known as brevetoxins. Human illness is primarily due to inhalation of aerosols, which results in a well-characterized syndrome of respiratory tract symptoms due to the irritative effects of brevetoxin.

The proposed study will utilize a case-control approach to compare symptom frequency during bloom and non-bloom period sampling to compare exposures and health impacts. In addition, for the exposed group, comparison of bloom cell density will be examined. As in our previous study, sampling locations will include Fort Myers region, Stuart, and communities around Lake Okeechobee (for example Clewiston and Indiantown). Continuing data collection sites will include: The Volunteers in Medicine Clinic (VIM) in Stuart, Public Health Department in Clewiston, Florida Public Works Department in Cape Coral, and FAU Clinical Research Unit in Boca Raton, FL.

Inclusion criteria

• 18 years or older
• live, visit, and/ or work in the following Florida counties: Indian River, St. Lucie, Charlotte, Collier, Hendry, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Martin, Monroe, Okeechobee, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Indian River, and/or Sarasota
• able to read and understand English

Exclusion criteria

• unable to independently consent
• younger than 18 years old
• prisoner
• pregnant women