Ocean City Closes Beaches, Boardwalk During Coronavirus

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Ocean City closed its beaches and boardwalk until further notice, Mayor Jay Gillian announced Wednesday. The decision comes in an effort to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

As of Wednesday, the state is allowing municipalities to close beaches and boardwalks at their discretion.

"We have a large senior population, and it’s of utmost importance to take their well-being into consideration," Gillian said.

Governor Phil Murphy announced 18 more deaths from the coronavirus Wednesday, raising the state total to 62. Murphy also announced on Wednesday that the state has 736 more positive tests, raising the state total to 4,402.

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The daily case total was smaller for the second consecutive day. Read more: Gov. Murphy To Shut Many Day Care Centers Amid Coronavirus Crisis

Cape May County has reported six cases of the virus as of Wednesday afternoon. County officials have not revealed which towns have had residents or visitors with positive cases. At least two are New York residents. Read more: 2nd NY Resident Tests Positive For Coronavirus In Cape May County

"Even with all the directives already in place, it’s clear that not everybody is taking the order to shelter in place seriously," Gillian said. "With the weather getting warmer, it will only get worse. I fully understand the impact that this will have on Ocean City, but I will always err on the side of caution."

Several shore times have considered closing their beaches and boardwalks, while some have already moved ahead with it. Seaside Heights closed its beaches Tuesday. Point Pleasant Beach closed its boardwalk Tuesday and placed a moratorium on vacation rentals.

Ocean City has canceled all special events through April.

How It Spreads

The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading from person-to-person. Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. That is why CDC recommends that these patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of infecting others.

There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19.

While the best way to prevent illness is to avoid virus exposure, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention always recommends taking preventive actions to contain the spread of viruses. This includes:

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

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