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Red Tide: Overview and Clinical Manifestations
Shiven S Patel1, Vincent J Lovko2, Richard F Lockey3
1Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine and James A. Haley Veterans' Affairs Hospital, Tampa, Fla; Acadia Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, SC.
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. in Practice
|November 26, 2019
Summary
Harmful algal blooms, like those caused by Karenia brevis, release toxins impacting ecosystems and human health. Outbreaks increase healthcare costs due to respiratory and gastrointestinal issues, with supportive care as the primary treatment.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are rapid proliferations of toxin-producing algae with global ecological and health impacts.
- Specific blooms, such as Karenia brevis in Florida, pose risks to humans through inhalation and ingestion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the health impacts and associated healthcare costs of Karenia brevis algal blooms.
- To understand the manifestations and supportive care for human exposure to algal toxins.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of health data during Karenia brevis bloom events.
- Analysis of healthcare utilization and costs related to respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Main Results:
- Healthcare costs significantly increased during algal bloom outbreaks.
- Respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions were primary drivers of increased healthcare utilization.
- Supportive care, including respiratory treatments, is the mainstay for managing exposure.
Conclusions:
- Karenia brevis blooms incur substantial healthcare costs due to human health effects.
- Effective management strategies and public health advisories are crucial during HAB events.
- Further research into long-term health impacts and preventative measures is warranted.
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