Boston's Jamaica Pond Closed Due to Suspected Algae Bloom, Health Officials Advise Caution
Boston's Jamaica Pond has been closed due to a suspected cyanobacteria bloom, prompting homeowners and park visitors to be cautious around the water. This form of algae poses serious health risks if swallowed or in some cases of direct contact on skin. The BPHC is cooperating with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) to determine when the water will be safe again for residents and visitors.
Boston Researchers Turn Virus into Revolutionary Weapon Against Glioblastoma
New findings from Brigham and Women's Hospital scientists show promising results in treating aggressive brain cancer glioblastoma with a virus specially designed to infect cancer cells and stimulate an anti-tumor immune response.
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Reinstates Mask Mandate, Response to Spike in Respiratory Illnesses in Boston
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute reinstates mask mandate due to a spike in respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and influenza. The decision is data-driven and aims to protect vulnerable patients.
UMass Amherst Scientists Identify Top Healthy Fruit Snacks Aligning With Federal Dietary Guidelines
UMass Amherst researchers analyzed 1,497 fruit snacks, finding that dried fruit, fruit puree, and canned fruit in juice are the healthiest options, aligning with federal dietary guidelines.
Harvard Study Suggests Link Between Bright Light Exposure, Sleep Regularity, and Lower Depression Risk
A Harvard-affiliated study finds a link between bright light exposure, stable sleep patterns, and lower depression risk, although the research doesn't confirm a direct cause-effect relationship.
Multi-State Listeria Outbreak Linked to Deli Meats Hospitalizes 28, Including Two from Massachusetts
The CDC is probing a Listeria outbreak linked to deli meats, which has resulted in 28 hospitalized cases across 12 states and two deaths. The exact source is unconfirmed, but consumption of deli meats is a common factor among those affected.
Harvard Experts Warn Runners from Heat to Prevent Training Tragedies
Harvard experts stress the importance of caution when running in high temperatures, warning of the risks of heatstroke and advocating for acclimation, hydration, and adjusting training routines to cooler times of the day.
Massachusetts Launches Anti-Mosquito Offensive in Plymouth and Worcester Counties Amid EEE Virus Threat
Massachusetts health officials plan mosquito control treatments in Plymouth and Worcester counties to combat the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus, utilizing Anvil 10+10 insecticide via aerial and truck-mounted spraying.
Boston Resident Hospitalized with Season's First Confirmed Case of West Nile Virus, Public Urged to Take Precautions
The Boston Public Health Commission confirmed a local man in his late 60s as the city's first human case of West Nile Virus this season, prompting increased vigilance against the mosquito-borne illness.
Harvard Experts Caution Against Weight Loss Products Exploiting Anti-Obesity Drug Trends
Harvard experts criticize the exploitation of weight loss trends by companies offering scientifically unsupported products, noting the potential public health risks and the perpetuation of obesity stigma.
Massachusetts General Hospital Study Finds "Weekend Warrior" Exercise Equally Effective as Daily Workouts
A study suggests "weekend warriors" who condense weekly exercise into one or two days gain similar health benefits as those who spread it out, potentially reducing the risk of 264 diseases.
Health Alert Over Potential Hepatitis A Exposure at The Red Inn in Provincetown Urgent Call for Patrons to Seek Medical Attention
Warning issued for hepatitis A exposure at The Red Inn in Provincetown, MA, with advice to seek medical attention for those who visited between April 30 and May 15.
Hope in the Hub as Boston Sees Staggering 38% Plunge in Opioid Fatalities Mirroring National Downward Trend
Boston sees a 38% reduction in opioid-related deaths in 2024, with significant declines among Black and Latinx men. The city attributes the drop to community efforts, naloxone distribution, and expanded healthcare partnerships.
Health Officials on Alert After Measles Case Reported in Boston as Public Urged to Check Vaccination Status
Boston health officials are on alert after a measles case was confirmed, with exposure sites including several public venues on June 7-8. The BPHC and DPH are tracing contacts and urging vaccination.
Massachusetts Hospitals Shine in National Rankings as Top Spots for Cancer, Psychiatry, and Obstetrics Care
Massachusetts hospitals receive high ratings in various specialties, with top spots for cancer treatment, obstetrics, gynecology, diabetes, endocrinology, and psychiatry, according to recent reports.
EEE Virus Detected in Mosquito Sample in Bridgewater, Massachusetts Amid Public Health Alert
EEE virus was detected in a mosquito sample from Bridgewater, Massachusetts, prompting health officials to urge preventative measures against mosquito bites. No human or animal cases have been reported in the state this year.
Newborn in Martha's Vineyard Suspected of Rare Powassan Virus Infection Amid Concerning Tick Season
An infant on Martha's Vineyard developed severe symptoms of the rare Powassan virus after a tick bite. With 24 cases in the US this year, experts advise prevention as there's no treatment or vaccine.
Massachusetts Raises West Nile Virus Risk Level, EEE Detected in Mosquitoes Across Multiple Counties
Massachusetts officials raise the risk level for West Nile virus in several communities and report Eastern equine encephalitis presence, urging protective measures against mosquito-borne illnesses.
Berklee College of Music Partners with Boston Public Health to Harness Music Therapy for Addiction Recovery
Berklee College of Music partners with Boston Public Health Commission to offer music therapy for addiction recovery, emphasizing music's role in impacting every part of the brain and fostering connection and self-awareness.
Public Health Advisory Issued in Boston as Cyanobacteria Bloom Threatens Charles River Activities
Boston's health officials warn to avoid Charles River activities due to a harmful cyanobacteria bloom spreading beyond the Cambridge Street bridge, posing risks of sickness and serious health issues.
Boston Honors Family Caregivers in November with Access to Vital Support Resources Amidst Funding Cuts
November is dedicated to appreciating family caregivers in Boston, with a reminder of resources like the Massachusetts Family Caregiver Support Program and connections to local services despite Medicaid cuts and the federal shutdown.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey Blasts Federal Government Over "Disturbing" Vaccine-Autism Misinformation
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey criticizes the dissemination of misinformation by the federal government linking vaccines to autism, stressing reliance on scientific consensus and evidence-based health information.
Medford Elementary Shuts Down Over Suspected Norovirus Outbreak After 130+ Student Absences
Roberts Elementary in Medford closed for cleaning due to a suspected norovirus outbreak, affecting over 130 students. Cases have increased locally and nationally. Officials urge handwashing and staying home if symptomatic.
Boston Faces 114% Surge in Flu Cases as Officials Urge Vaccination Amid Early Onset and Rising ER Visits
Boston is experiencing a significant increase in flu cases, with flu-related ER visits also on the rise. Children are severely affected, and vaccination rates remain low. Officials urge vaccination as the best defense against the flu.
Measles Alert in Boston and Westborough After Visitor Diagnosed, DPH and CDC Track Potential Exposures
Massachusetts DPH warns of potential measles exposure caused by an infectious visitor in Boston and Westborough, emphasizing vaccination in response to the recent national increase in cases.
FDA Issues Class I Recall on Listeria-Contaminated Cheese Across 20 States Including Arizona, California, and Texas
The FDA has raised the Ambriola Company cheese recall to a Class I risk level due to Listeria contamination, with products distributed in 20 states. No related health incidents reported yet. Consumers are advised to return or dispose of the cheese.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey Initiates Bold Health Care Reforms to Boost Accessibility and Affordability
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has initiated health care reforms to improve accessibility and affordability, including easing prior authorization requirements and setting up a Health Care Affordability Working Group.
Critical Blood Shortage at Boston's Kraft Family Blood Donor Center Threatens Patient Care
The Kraft Family Blood Donor Center at Dana-Farber and Brigham & Women’s Hospital faces a critical blood shortage, affecting patient care. They urge local donors to act, as storms have exacerbated the deficit in blood and platelets.
Pregnant Immigrants Vanish From Boston Exam Rooms as Fear Takes Hold
Clinicians across Greater Boston say immigrant pregnant patients are missing prenatal and postpartum visits amid enforcement fears and federal policy shifts. Health centers warn missed care could mean worse outcomes for mothers and babies.
Boston Kids Swamp ERs With Toothaches As Routine Dental Care Slips
Doctors and recent studies say gaps in preventive dental care — and strains on Medicaid — are sending more children to emergency rooms with painful tooth infections. Local experts and national research point to prevention and hospital‑based fixes.
Boston Nurse’s ‘Heartbeat’ Headache Uncovers Rare Brain Pressure Threat
A Boston nurse’s persistent headaches were diagnosed as idiopathic intracranial hypertension; new MRI research from Mass General Brigham points to less invasive diagnostic clues. Researchers are also studying GLP‑1 drugs as a possible treatment.
356K Iron Supplement Bottles Sold With Kid-Easy Lids, Feds Sound Alarm
A federal recall covers about 356,140 VitaQuest-made iron supplements because caps aren't child-resistant; VitaQuest is offering free childproof caps and a full lot chart is available.
Tufts OR Nurses Revolt, Declare No Confidence in Bosses Over 'Dangerous' Staffing
More than 70 Tufts operating‑room nurses signed a no‑confidence letter, citing unfilled shifts and excessive overtime that they say threaten patient safety. The union has filed complaints with state and national regulators.
Harvard Cancer Probe Puts Pilgrim Neighbors on Edge in Plymouth
Harvard researchers will install air monitors and run blood tests around Pilgrim after a statewide study linked proximity to higher cancer rates. Neighbors and watchdogs say thousands of spent‑fuel assemblies on site raise stakes.
Medford Mega Hub Helps Cambridge Health Alliance Hit 1 Million Visits
Cambridge Health Alliance says it now handles roughly one million visits a year while adding psychiatric beds, a new Medford care center and surgical robotics. The system calls the milestone part of a multi‑year push to expand access.
Kennedy Brings Lyme Battle To Concord As Feds Launch New Push
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will outline federal steps to improve Lyme testing and care in Concord on May 29, 2026. The package includes investments in diagnostics and a renewed LymeX accelerator.
Dartmouth Health Muscles Into North Country With Littleton Hospital Deal
Dartmouth Health has signed a letter of intent to bring Littleton Regional Healthcare into its network and rebranded its home‑health agency to expand rural access. Leaders say new digital tools and a capacity center aim to keep more care close to home.
New 60-Bed Detox Hub Aims to Keep Lowell Crisis Patients Out of ERs and Jail
Spectrum and Vinfen have opened a 60‑bed treatment and restoration campus in Lowell that pairs walk‑in crisis diversion with short‑term detox and stabilization. Officials say the site will scale up after permitting and credentialing are finished.




















































































































































































































































