Advisory Issued for Wellington Beach Due to Elevated Bacteria Levels

Crisfield, MD - The Department of Environmental Health has issued a health advisory for Wellington Beach, located in Crisfield, Maryland, due to elevated levels of bacteria in the water.

The advisory indicates that the current water conditions may pose a health risk to beachgoers.

Water quality at Wellington Beach will be retested on Monday, July 21, 2025, with results expected by Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Updates will be provided to the public once the bacteria levels return to acceptable standards for recreational use.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Individuals most susceptible to illnesses from swimming in contaminated water include the following groups:

• Children
• The elderly
• Pregnant women
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

These groups are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill due to exposure to waterborne bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Health Risks Associated with Contaminated Water

Exposure to contaminated water may result in various symptoms and illnesses, including but not limited to:

• Ear, nose, and eye infections
• Gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and vomiting
• Skin rashes
• Respiratory illnesses
• Hepatitis
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)

Visitors to Wellington Beach are strongly encouraged to exercise caution and avoid swimming until the health advisory is lifted.

Tips to Reduce Risk of Illness

To safeguard your health, follow these recommended guidelines for reducing your risk of illness when visiting beaches:

• Observe contamination signs and advisory warnings, and avoid areas with active warnings.
• Refrain from swimming in beach water following heavy rainfall, as runoff can increase contamination levels.
• Avoid swimming in murky or foul-smelling water, as it may indicate the presence of pollutants.
• Stay out of beach water if you have an open wound or pre-existing infection.
• Minimize contact with contaminated water by keeping your head above water while swimming.