Possible estuary-associated syndrome

Possible estuary-associated syndrome (PEAS) is known to occur in brackish coastal waters along the mid-Atlantic coast of the U.S. and has been reported in a few scattered locations worldwide as well. Exposure to Pfiesteria toxins in the air, water, or fish at the site of an outbreak can cause skin and eye irritation as well as short-term memory loss, confusion, and other cognitive impairments in people. No toxic activity has been detected in shellfish harvested from sites of Pfiesteria blooms.

Additional Information

Pfiesteria and Harmful Algal Blooms in the Mid-Atlantic
Mid-Atlantic Sea Grant Program
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Last updated: July 31, 2012

The Harmful Algae Page is supported by a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Center for Sponsored Coastal Ocean Research Coastal Ocean Program (NOAA/CSCOR/COP) grant to the National Office for Harmful Algal Blooms at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Dr. Don Anderson, Director.