Several popular beach destinations along the coasts of Maryland and Virginia have been closed to swimming and even wading as officials investigate reports of “medical waste,” including needles, washing up on shore. The closures, announced Sunday afternoon, affect Ocean City, Assateague Island, Fenwick Island, and Chincoteague Public Beach.

The Town of Ocean City has closed its local beaches for swimming, with Emergency Services Director Joe Theobald urging “everyone to adhere to this closure until further notice.” Theobald stated that they will work closely with the Worcester County Health Department and other public health authorities to investigate the source of the medical waste. He described the situation as “serious, especially given the combination of rough seas and the current health concerns.”

There is currently no estimate on when the beaches may reopen to swimming. Visitors in the area are strongly advised to wear shoes and avoid the ocean entirely, according to Theobald.

The Town of Fenwick Island has also closed its beaches to swimming, citing reports of waste washing to shore. This announcement was made via a Facebook post from the town’s government.

The National Park Service reported closures on the Maryland side of Assateague Island National Seashore due to the medical waste reports. The North End of Assateague Island is closed to all visitors, and the beaches in the Maryland District are closed to swimming and wading. As the situation developed, Chincoteague Public Beach in Virginia was added to the closure list. All ocean-facing beaches at Assateague Island National Seashore are now closed to swimming or wading.

Officials from the park service and Fenwick Island have echoed calls for visitors to keep their shoes on while walking on the beach. These precautions are in place to ensure public safety as authorities work to address the situation and investigate the source of the medical waste.

The closures and warnings highlight the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing the need for beachgoers to prioritize safety and follow all guidelines and restrictions put in place by local authorities. As the investigation continues, officials will likely provide updates on the status of the beaches and any findings regarding the source of the medical waste.