Medical waste washing ashore restricts ocean access in Maryland’s coastal areas

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TL/DR –

Officials in Ocean City and Maryland State Parks have imposed restrictions on ocean access after medical waste was found washing ashore at Assateague State Park and Ocean City beach. The restrictions include swimming, wading, surfing, and any other activities in the ocean. Emergency Services Director Joe Theobold stated that they are taking the matter seriously and will work with the Worcester County Health Department and other public health authorities to investigate the source.


Medical Waste Found on Maryland Beaches, Ocean Access Restricted

Ocean City and Maryland State Parks officials have imposed ocean access restrictions following the discovery of medical waste on Assateague State Park and Ocean City beach. The information was released on the departments’ social media platforms.

What activities are restricted?

  • Swimming
  • Wading
  • Surfing
  • Other ocean activities

The Town of Ocean City Government has expressed that Emergency Service personnel are taking this issue very seriously. They will be closely working with the Worchester County Health Department and other public health authorities to investigate the source of the medical waste. Emergency Services Director Joe Theobold stated, “Until we are confident that the issue is under control, we recommend wearing shoes on the beach and avoiding the ocean entirely.”

Assateague State Park, along with other beaches along the Maryland coast, is experiencing a significant amount of medical waste washing onshore. Access to the ocean will be restricted at this time. No swimming, wading, surfing, or any activities in the ocean are permitted. pic.twitter.com/jcT74Nn5zs

— Maryland State Parks (@MDStateParks) September 15, 2024

Ocean City officials have assured that they will continue to monitor the beach and remove debris, stressing that public cooperation is crucial to maintaining beach safety.


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