Small patch of red tide spotted along Sarasota beaches

A red tide has caused some respiratory irritations in some people along beaches in the Sarasota area.

According to Mote Marine Laboratory, some dead fish were reported Tuesday at Venice North Jetty.

The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports the laboratory found medium concentrations of red tide in water samples collected Monday and Tuesday as part of year-round monitoring program. Scientists plan to take more samples on Wednesday offshore from Tampa to Captiva Island in southwest Florida.

In a press release, Mote said satellite images suggest a small patch of red tide in along the coastlines of Manatee and Sarasota counties.

Red tide can cause coughing, sneezing and teary eyes. People with respiratory illnesses may be more sensitive to red tide.