Manasquan Beach is now open. Officials closed it to swimmers yesterday afternoon after more than 60 syringes washed ashore.

The beach itself remained open, although officials urged visitors to stay out of the water during the sweep and follow lifeguard instructions.

Mayor Michael Mangan says a patron brought over five needles, which prompted a sweep of the beach. Crews recovered 60 needles during the sweep and notified county health officials.

The sweep was limited to the south end of the beach. The north end of the beach remained unaffected.

A red flag warning was already in place to alert swimmers of rough waters.