Harmful algal blooms do more than disappoint beachgoers with a do not swim advisory.<\/p>\n
Excessive growths of blue-green algae, known as cyanobacteria, and Karenia brevis<\/em>, which creates red tide, release toxins into the surrounding air and water that can negatively impact the environment and human health<\/a>.<\/p>\n A team of researchers<\/a> led by UCF is studying the relationships between these harmful algal blooms in Florida and how they impact human health, potentially causing respiratory, gastrointestinal, skin and liver issues.<\/p>\n \u201cThis study is about making it safe to enjoy our waterways,\u201d says Rebecca Koszalinski, College of Nursing<\/a> associate professor who leads UCF\u2019s Human Health Outcomes of Exposure to Environmental Toxins Lab.<\/p>\n Koszalinski is using a One Health approach that examines how humans influence the environment and how the environment influences human health. The multidisciplinary research team includes experts from other universities as well as veterinarians, immunologists, clinical research nurses, water and air researchers, and epidemiologists.<\/p>\n The study focuses on Florida, where harmful algal blooms are common occurrences and found in all waterways. Florida is also where the blooms have the potential to impact the health of a large number of people, as the state is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy boating and fishing.<\/p>\n