Ft. Walton Beach, FL- The Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County has lifted the health alert issued on September 23 for the presence of red tide near Shirah Beach in Destin. Follow-up water samples taken in coordination with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission show red tide is at low levels near this location, indicating the public may resume water-related activities.

It is important that the public continue to exercise caution and good judgement. If you experience respiratory or eye irritation, you should consider leaving the area or seeking relief in an air-conditioned space. The latest sample results can be viewed on ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov.

Report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algal bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center. Call 1-800-222-1222 to speak to a poison specialist.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @HealthyFla. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

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