Brevetoxin may be produced by certain dinoflagellates such as Karenia brevis. During a red tide this toxin may be aerosolized by breaking waves. Exposure to the aerosolized toxin can result in a number of signs and symptoms.
People affected:
(1) bathers on the beach
(2) fishermen
(3) boaters
(4) workers
(5) people living near the beach
Ocular findings:
(1) eye irritation
Nasal findings:
(1) sneezing
(2) sniffling
Respiratory findings:
(1) throat irritation
(2) difficulty breathing
(3) phlegm production
(4) bronchitis and bronchopneumonia
A person may report onset of symptoms soon after arriving at the beach and remission soon after leaving it.
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