Carbon Monoxide Exposure Cases Surge 50% in Maryland

State health data shows a sharp rise in ER and urgent care visits due to CO poisoning so far in 2026.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Cases of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure in Maryland increased by nearly 50% in 2026 compared to last year, according to data from the State Department of Health. More than 400 people die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning each year in the U.S., and the state has seen several CO-related deaths in recent years linked to alternative heating sources and faulty equipment.

Why it matters

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled. The sharp rise in CO exposure cases in Maryland highlights the importance of proper ventilation, maintenance of heating equipment, and awareness of the risks, especially during the winter months when alternative heating sources are more common.

The details

In 2025, Maryland recorded 167 ER and urgent care visits due to CO exposure. So far in 2026, that number has jumped to 251 cases. The state's health department attributes the rise to CO produced by alternative heating sources like portable generators and faulty furnaces. Symptoms of CO poisoning include shortness of breath, headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness and loss of consciousness.

  • In 2025, Maryland recorded 167 ER and urgent care visits due to CO exposure.
  • So far in 2026, Maryland has recorded 251 ER and urgent care visits due to CO exposure, a nearly 50% increase.
  • On February 24, 2026, there was a single-day spike of 15 CO exposure cases, 12 of which were from out-of-state visitors.
  • In March 2025, a Baltimore restaurant owner died from CO poisoning after his car was left running in the attached garage.
  • In August 2025, 13 people were evaluated and 4 hospitalized after a CO alarm went off at an Ocean City hotel.

The players

Maryland State Department of Health

The state agency that tracks and reports data on carbon monoxide exposure and cold-related deaths and illnesses.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The national public health institute that reports over 400 unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning deaths per year in the U.S.

Costas Triantafilos

The owner of a Baltimore restaurant who died from carbon monoxide poisoning in March 2025 after his car was left running in the attached garage of his home.

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What’s next

The state health department will continue to monitor CO exposure cases and issue weekly reports on cold-related illnesses and deaths throughout the winter season.

The takeaway

This sharp rise in carbon monoxide exposure cases in Maryland underscores the critical need for proper ventilation, maintenance of heating equipment, and public awareness of the risks of CO poisoning, especially during the colder months when alternative heating sources are more common. Vigilance and proactive safety measures can help prevent tragedies.