What is red tide and why is it harmful to humans and to environment? | What Science says | PH RED TV

Summary

In this Phred TV episode, we explore red tide, a marine phenomenon that can be dangerous to coastal communities. It's a harmful algae bloom that produces toxins, affecting shellfish and causing paralytic shellfish poisoning in humans. Symptoms include tingling, headache, dizziness, and potentially life-threatening respiratory issues. The National Red Tide Task Force monitors these blooms in the Philippines to protect public health and the shellfish industry.

Takeaways

• 🌊 Red tide is a marine phenomenon that can be harmful to health and coastal economies.
• 🌡️ It is sometimes referred to as a harmful algae bloom (HAB), even if it doesn't visibly color the water.
• 🦠 Most phytoplankton are harmless, but some species produce potent neurotoxins.
• 🐚 Shellfish like mussels or clams can concentrate these toxins, posing a risk to humans who consume them.
• 🚨 Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) is a serious syndrome that can occur after eating contaminated shellfish.
• ⏱️ Symptoms of PSP can appear within two hours of consumption, including tingling and numbness, headache, and nausea.
• 🏥 Severe cases of PSP can lead to respiratory difficulties and even death within 24 hours.
• 💨 Physical contact with red tide can cause breathing problems, especially for those with pre-existing lung conditions.
• 🛑 There is no antidote for PSP, but life support measures can help ensure recovery.
• 🔬 In the Philippines, the National Red Tide Task Force monitors red tides to protect public health and the shellfish industry.

Q & A

What is red tide?

Red tide is a marine phenomenon that poses a great risk to the health and economic livelihood of people in coastal areas. It is sometimes referred to as a harmful algae bloom (HAB).

Why is red tide harmful?

Red tide is harmful because a small number of phytoplankton species within it produce potent neurotoxins that can be transferred down the food chain and affect people who ingest them.

How do humans commonly get affected by red tide?

Humans are commonly affected by red tide through the consumption of shellfish such as mussels or clams that have been exposed to the harmful algae bloom.

What is Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP)?

Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) is a syndrome that people can develop if they eat seafood contaminated by a red tide. It can be life-threatening and often shows itself within two hours of consumption.

What are the symptoms of PSP?

Symptoms of PSP include tingling of the lips and tongue, headache, dizziness, nausea, and in severe cases, muscular paralysis and respiratory difficulty.

How soon can the symptoms of PSP appear after consuming contaminated shellfish?

The symptoms of PSP can appear within 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion of contaminated shellfish.

What are the severe effects of PSP?

In severe cases, PSP can lead to respiratory arrest within 24 hours of consumption, and even death if not treated promptly.

Can red tide cause breathing problems even for those without respiratory issues?

Yes, coming into physical contact with red tide may result in breathing problems even for people who do not have previous respiratory issues.

What is the role of the National Red Tide Task Force (NRTTF) in the Philippines?

The NRTTF in the Philippines is mandated to monitor toxic red tides to protect the public from illness and death caused by red tide toxins and to mitigate its negative impact on the shellfish industry.

Is there an antidote for PSP?

There is no specific antidote for syndromes such as PSP, but life support systems like mechanical respirators and oxygen can help individuals make a full recovery.

What should one do if they suspect they have eaten contaminated seafood?

If one suspects they have eaten contaminated seafood, they should see a doctor immediately.