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.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.