Recent media reports have alerted us to the impending arrival of the largest Atlantic sargassum belt ever recorded. Stretching over 5,000 miles and encircling the Gulf of Mexico and mid-Atlantic, this mass of leafy, buoyant algae is expected to wash ashore on Florida’s beaches and other coastal areas in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean by mid-summer.
While much attention has been given to the environmental impact of sargassum, it is crucial to consider the potential health hazards it poses to individuals, especially those with asthma or respiratory conditions. As these masses of seaweed begin to decompose approximately 48 hours after reaching the beaches and coastal communities, they release irritants like hydrogen sulfide into the air, causing concerns for public health.
Dr. Jose Vazquez, the chief of primary care at Baptist Health Medical Group, has encountered patients who experienced minor flare-ups due to contact with sargassum or even red tide, harmful algal blooms that occur along the nation’s coastlines. Some harmful algal blooms produce toxins that can have adverse effects on people, marine life, and birds.
Individuals with a history of asthma, chronic respiratory issues, or chronic allergies are particularly vulnerable to the effects of sargassum. Dr. Vazquez explains that sargassum emits irritants in the form of a foul-smelling gas called hydrogen sulfide, which can irritate the respiratory tract, eyes, and nasal passages. People prone to these symptoms are at higher risk of experiencing respiratory discomfort.
Sargassum is a type of large brown seaweed that floats in mass formations without attaching to the seafloor. While large blooms of sargassum are not uncommon in the Caribbean islands, the Gulf Coast of Mexico, and Florida’s coastline, the current situation is presenting more significant challenges. Dr. Vazquez advises extreme caution when encountering sargassum masses on the beach and strongly discourages children from playing or touching the seaweed piles.
Exposure to high concentrations of sargassum, regardless of whether an individual has asthma or chronic allergies, can lead to symptoms such as coughing, watery eyes, runny nose, and even shortness of breath. In 2011, the Atlantic Oceanographic & Meteorological Laboratory (AOML), part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), observed an expansion of the sargassum belt’s geographic range. The sudden increase in floating algae can disrupt various sectors, including shipping, tourism, fishing, and coastal ecosystems.
The sargassum masses can contain organisms like jellyfish and microscopic organisms that may cause skin irritation upon contact. In severe cases, individuals exposed to sargassum-related airborne irritants, such as clean-up crews and workers, may experience neurological effects, including headaches and memory problems. While most people recover well from such exposure, there have been rare cases of long-term neurological effects, usually associated with high concentrations in closed areas or specific industries exposed to hydrogen sulfide.
Dr. Vazquez emphasizes the importance of using common sense when encountering sargassum. He advises against overexposure, consuming or using sargassum for cooking, and ensuring children do not ingest it. If symptoms develop, individuals should distance themselves from the seaweed, use inhalers if they have asthma, and seek medical attention if the symptoms persist. It is essential to note that this condition is treatable and does not lead to cancer or long-term effects. However, whenever possible, it is best to avoid exposure to sargassum.
As the unprecedented sargassum belt approaches our shores, being informed about the potential health risks and taking necessary precautions can help mitigate the impact on individuals, especially those with respiratory conditions. By prioritizing safety and making informed choices, we can navigate this situation responsibly and safeguard our well-being.
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