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SEPTEMBER 27, 2007
Health Alert Issued For Amelia
Island Beach-Goers
by News4Jax.com
NASSAU COUNTY, Fla. -- Reports from swimmers and lifeguards in Nassau County who
said there is something in the water off Amelia Island making them sick have
prompted a health alert.
The Nassau County Health Department announced on Tuesday it has received
numerous reports from people who spend time along the coast who said they were
suffering from scratchy throats, irritated eyes and a cough.
Nassau County Emergency Management said the numerous reports from citizens
related to health concerns and large numbers of dead fish on Amelia Island's
beaches have caused officials to initiate an assessment of potential health and
environmental conditions.
The Nassau County Health Department has advised the public to be aware of
possible respiratory irritation while walking or swimming on Nassau County
beaches. The area extends the entire length of the Atlantic coastline of Amelia
Island.
According to the NCEM, testing was being done on the beach water for both water
quality and Red Tide -- a naturally occurring form of algae bloom that can cause
similar symptoms.
Red Tide is rare in Northeast Florida and is usually seen in Atlantic waters of
Southern Florida, and on the west coast of Florida.
However, health complaints and fish kill conditions appear to be similar to Red
Tide, the NCEM said.
People, who have health conditions such as asthma, emphysema, or other
respiratory problems, should avoid going to the beach while the conditions
exist.
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