Cambridge Public Health Department

The official page for the Cambridge Public Health Department. This account is not monitored 24/7. Call the Cambridge Public Health Department, 617-665-3826.

Our mission is to improve the quality of life for all who live, learn, work, and play in the city of Cambridge. To report a suspected or diagnosed communicable disease case:
Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. After hours & holidays: Call the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 617-983-6800.

07/29/2024

There are still a couple of Book Bikes to go!

Families - It's Cambridge Book Bike's 10th anniversary this year! Join us at one of our two special Book Bike Summer Parties to celebrate! July 31 at Russell Field or August 7th at Clement Morgan Park from 5:30-7:00 pm.

We'll have free books, fun activities, story time, and dinner from the Summer Food program. There will also be some special surprises!

We hope you can join us!

Cambridge Dads Center for Families Let's Talk Cambridge Cambridge Public Library Department of Human Service Programs, Cambridge MA Cambridge Community Learning Center Find It Cambridge Cambridge Public School District (Official Site) East End House Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House Cambridge Community Center Cambridge Economic Opportunity Committee Cambridge Public Health Department

07/26/2024

Boar's Head Provisions Co. is recalling all liverwurst products and several types of ham, bologna, salami, and bacon products sold at deli counters nationwide because they may be contaminated with the bacteria Listeria. The products were produced in June and July, 2024.

Consumption of the contaminated meats can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that primarily affects people who are pregnant, aged 65 or older, or with weakened immune systems.

https://www.cambridgepublichealth.org/boars-head-recalls-several-deli-meat-products-due-to-listeria-risk/

07/25/2024

Have you seen our bus ads for the local Community Behavioral Health Center? Need emotional, mental health, or substance use help? Get help right away for yourself or a loved one. Visit or call the Community Behavioral Health Center.

The center is located at Cambridge Hospital on the 1st floor. Call the 24-Hour Access Line at 833-222-2030.

https://www.challiance.org/services-programs/mental-health-and-substance-use/psychiatry-crisis-services

Cambridge Health Alliance Vinfen Bay Cove Human Services

07/23/2024

The CDC has announced a Listeria outbreak believed to be linked to meats sliced at grocery store deli counters. Several of the reported cases have occurred in the Northeast, including in .

Listeria may be especially harmful to people who:
- are pregnant;
- are aged 65 or older; or
- have weakened immune systems.

CDC recommends that people in these groups either avoid eating meats sliced at the deli or heat deli meats to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F or until steaming hot before eating.

07/19/2024

Despite the major worldwide outage, know that Cambridge's 911 emergency services were not disrupted. The Cambridge Public Health Department (us) was also not disrupted.

Please note that despite the global technology outages affecting many systems around the world, Cambridge’s 911 emergency services are operating properly and were never disrupted.

They were not compromised by these outages.

Photos from Cambridge Public Health Department's post 07/16/2024

It's hot outside. 🥵 Be sure to check on your pets frequently to make sure they are safe during the extreme heat.

💧 Give pets plenty of fresh clean water.

🐾 Don't let pets linger on hot asphalt.

🚗 NEVER leave children or pets alone in hot vehicles! Heat can rise in a car, up to 20 degrees in just 10 minutes!

🏊🏼 Don't leave pets unsupervised around a pool or body of water.

🏥 Visit the vet for a summer checkup.



Images from Ready

Photos from Cambridge Public Health Department's post 07/15/2024

Our Prevention and Recovery Specialist Danielle McPeak, MPH was recently quoted in a The Boston Globe article about Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority - MBTA installing overdose emergency kits that contain Narcan in five Red Line stations. The one in Cambridge will be Harvard T stop.

“'The more Narcan is accessible, the more likely that we’ll be able to keep people alive if they overdose,' said Prevention and Recovery Specialist for the Cambridge Public Health Department Danielle McPeak in an interview with Boston.com. 'Massachusetts is a place that believes in harm reduction.'”

The article notes that these kits are similar to the kits around the City of Cambridge (Official). View the map and locations here: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1pb5pCpklyM-tad7AVYDb_-iP9XVUvDQ&ll=42.378480884919725%2C-71.1206695&z=14

https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2024/07/12/mbta-will-install-narcan-access-points-on-red-line/

AboveGround Harvard University Cambridge MA Fire Department Cambridge Police Department

07/12/2024

State health officials reported on 7/9 that a mosquito sample in Cambridge had tested positive for West Nile virus.

Although the risk level remains low, we want to remind residents to take precautions in avoiding mosquito bites to prevent West Nile virus.

There are simple things residents can do to prevent mosquito bites:

- Apply insect repellent when outdoors.
- Wear long-sleeved clothing.
- Repair damaged window and door screens.
- Get rid of standing water in your yard.
- Buy mosquito dunk.

https://www.cambridgepublichealth.org/cambridge-mosquito-sample-tests-positive-for-west-nile-virus/



City of Cambridge (Official) Cambridge Council on Aging
Department of Human Service Programs, Cambridge MA
Let's Talk Cambridge Cambridge Dads Cambridge MA Fire Department

07/11/2024

Happening today (7/11)!

Today! Join us for free books, activities, story time and lunch from the Summer Food program!!

Center for Families Let's Talk Cambridge Cambridge Office of Early Childhood Cambridge Dads Cambridge Public Library Cambridge Community Learning Center

07/11/2024

It's National Swimming Pool Day. Remember to be alert and watch children closely. Supervise children in and around water at all times.

Learn more water safety tips: https://www.cambridgepublichealth.org/summer-swim-safety-2024/

City of Cambridge (Official) Cambridge Health Alliance Cambridge Public School District (Official Site) Department of Human Service Programs, Cambridge MA

Today is National , and this weather has us all in the mood for a dip! If you're heading to the pool this summer, remember that that children always need adult supervision in and around water. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children 1 to 4 years old: https://cdc.gov/drowning/about/.

07/10/2024

It's hot outside. Be like these local Cambridge turkeys and seek shade!

Stay cool Cambridge!

Photos from Cambridge Public Health Department's post 07/10/2024

No one likes mosquito bites. They can itch and sometimes can make you sick (West Nile virus and EEE). Luckily, there are simple things you can do to prevent mosquito bites:
- Use insect repellents any time you are outdoors.
- Do not let children handle repellents. Instead, apply a repellent to your own hands and then rub it on your child.
- Wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
- Repair damaged window and door screens.
https://www.cambridgepublichealth.org/mosquito-bite-prevention

Prepare For Extreme Heat 07/08/2024

It's going to be pretty hot the next few days. Be sure to drink some water and stay where there is a/c.

Prepare For Extreme Heat When temperatures are forecasted to reach extreme levels, it's important to take precautions to stay safe during a heat wave. The City has compiled some help...

Photos from Cambridge Public Health Department's post 07/08/2024

We're pleased to welcome two physicians who will lead the clinical efforts at CPHD following the retirement of Medical Director Dr. Lisa Dobberteen. As of 7/1, Dr. Linda Shipton assumed the role of our Medical Director. Dr. Sam Cohen will become our School Health Physician on 7/15.

The two individuals in these positions will serve as the stewards of public health for the children Cambridge Public School District (Official Site) and all who live, work, and study in the community.

https://www.cambridgepublichealth.org/cambridge-public-health-department-welcomes-new-clinical-leaders/

Cambridge Health Alliance City of Cambridge (Official)

07/04/2024

Happy 4th of July!

State public health officials announce season’s first EEE-positive mosquito samples 07/03/2024

First West Nile virus, now EEE. State public health officials announce season’s first EEE-positive mosquito samples. Residents urged to use bug spray when outdoors:

State public health officials announce season’s first EEE-positive mosquito samples Residents urged to use bug spray when outdoors

07/03/2024

Grilling this 4th of July? Don’t cross-contaminate! Keep people safe from potential food poisoning. Anything used for raw meats —brushes, spatulas, cutting boards, plates, and marinades— should not be used for cooked meats.

Tap the link in bio for more tips on how to grill safely this July 4th.


Reposted from

State public health officials announce season’s first West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples 07/02/2024

Massachusetts state public health officials announce season’s first West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples. Mass residents urged to use bug spray when outdoors:

State public health officials announce season’s first West Nile virus-positive mosquito samples Residents urged to use bug spray when outdoors

Photos from Cambridge Public Health Department's post 07/02/2024

Did you know that tick bites can happen year-round, but many people get tick bites in the warmer months when they are doing more outdoor activities such as hiking?

Prevent tick bites:
- Check yourself for ticks once a day. Remember to check your children and pets, too. Checking is the single most important thing you can do!
- Use repellents with an EPA-registered active ingredient; always follow the directions on the label.
- Shower soon after being outdoors.
- Talk to your veterinarian about the best ways to protect your animals from ticks and tick-borne disease.

If you find a tick, don’t panic. Use tweezers and grab as close to the skin as possible, pulling directly upwards without twisting. This ensures the tick is completely removed to prevent infection.

https://www.cambridgepublichealth.org/stop-tick-bites-this-summer/

Photos from Department of Human Service Programs, Cambridge MA's post 07/02/2024
07/01/2024

Summer is here and so are Cambridge Book Bike events! There are free books, activities, story time and lunch from the Summer Food program!
https://letstalkcambridge.org/wp-content/uploads/General-Outreach-Flyer-2024-1.pdf

Cambridge Dads The Cambridge Family Cambridge Public School District (Official Site) Agenda for Children OST Let's Talk Cambridge

06/28/2024

Cambridge, take note: There are upcoming Red Line closures. 🚇 There will be FREE shuttle buses instead of trains.

Here's the schedule of closures:

Saturday, June 29 to Sunday, June 30*
• Alewife to Harvard Closed All Day. Shuttles buses will stop at Alewife, Davis,
Porter, and Harvard.
* Friday, June 28 at 8:45pm to Sunday, June 30.
* Trains leaving Boston will stop at Charles/MGH and the next stop will be
Central Square. Skipping Kendall/MIT.

Friday, July 5 at 8:45pm to Sunday, July 7 All Day
• Trains leaving Boston will stop at Charles/MGH and the next stop will be
Central Square. Skipping Kendall/MIT.

Saturday, July 13 to Sunday, July 28
• Alewife to Kendall/MIT Closed All Day. Shuttles buses will stop at Alewife,
Davis, Porter, Harvard, Central, and Kendall/MIT.
• Closed on Weekdays after 8:45 p.m. AND all day on weekends from
Alewife to Park Street. Shuttles buses will stop at Alewife, Davis, Porter,
Harvard, Central, Kendall/MIT, Charles/MGH, and Park Street.

Don't want to take the shuttles?
◦ Use the regular MBTA buses or other train options.
◦ Commuter Rail will be FREE between Porter Sq and North
Station.
◦ The MBTA 77 Bus Route will be FREE.
• Walk or Bike (Bluebikes is offering 5 free rides from July 13 to July 28).

Visit mbta.com/redline for more info.

City of Cambridge (Official) MBTA Commuter Rail Find It Cambridge

Photos from American Foundation for Su***de Prevention's post 06/26/2024

Getting the support you need can be daunting. Striving for mental wellness is an act of courage.

06/26/2024

It's hot today. Be like Cookie Monster and stay in a cool place and stay hydrated.

Taken from Sesame Street

Let's Talk Cambridge Cambridge Dads Cambridge Public School District (Official Site)

06/25/2024

Be safe in the water! 🏊‍♀️
- Never swim alone.
- Learn to swim. Click the link below for swim class locations.
- Be aware that cold water can shock your system and impair your ability to react.
- Supervise children in and around water at all times.
- Learn CPR. Click below to learn about classes at the American Red Cross of Massachusetts.

https://www.cambridgepublichealth.org/summer-swim-safety-2024/

Let's Talk Cambridge Cambridge Dads Department of Human Service Programs, Cambridge MA Department of Human Service Programs, Cambridge MA Cambridge YMCA Cambridge Public School District (Official Site)

06/24/2024

Remember to keep pets safe during hot weather with these pawesome tips. 🐶😺

Photos from Cambridge Public Health Department's post 06/23/2024

Why do you think she announces her powers? 🌩️ She's giving civilians a warning to go inside! ⚡ When you hear thunder, go inside into a building 🏠 or car with a roof. 🚗 Pay attention to alerts and warnings. Avoid using electronic devices connected to an electrical outlet. 🔌 Watch for fallen power lines and trees. 🌳 Report them immediately.

If a person is struck by lightning, call 911 and get medical care immediately. 🚑

Learn more tips at Ready website: Ready.gov.

06/21/2024

Happening tomorrow. Join us!

Hello Families and Happy Monday!

Center for Families staff are getting ready for our Family Fun Day this weekend, Saturday June 22nd from 10:00am-1:30pm on Rindge Field (behind Peabody School).

We hope you can join us for face painting, messy crafts, arts, water play, bubbles, moon bounces, Knucklebones movement and play, music, obstacle course, games, and more!

We will have a free light lunch and each child will go home with a free book from Let's Talk Cambridge.

This event happens rain or shine (rain plan: Peabody School Gym). We hope to see you there!!

Cambridge Dads Department of Human Service Programs, Cambridge MA Cambridge Public School District (Official Site) Cambridge Office of Early Childhood Cambridge Community Learning Center Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House East End House Cambridge Book Bike City of Cambridge (Official) Baby U, Cambridge MA

06/20/2024

It's hot outside. Children of all ages can splash around in splash pads, spouts, sprinklers, and more at many of Cambridge's parks. See below for details!

Cambridge Dads Let's Talk Cambridge Agenda for Children OST Cambridge Public School District (Official Site)

The City of Cambridge is excited to announce that waterplay features at many parks and playgrounds are now open for the summer season! These facilities are a fantastic way for kids to cool off and have fun during the hot months and are free for everyone to enjoy. Children of all ages can splash around in splash pads, spouts, sprinklers, and more at the following locations, open seven days a week:

Alden Playground
Bergin Park
Cambridge Common City Park
Cooper Park
Clarendon Ave Park
Danehy Park
David Nunes Park
Glacken Field
Goldstar Mothers Park
Greene-Rose Heritage Park
Hoyt Field
MLK School Playground
Paine Park
Paolillo Tot Lot
Reverend Williams Park
Riverside Neighborhood Park
Riverside Press Park
Sennott Park
Timothy J. Toomey Jr. Park
Warren Pals Park

Waterplay features at Hurley Park, Kemp Playground, and Ahern Field are undergoing repairs.

To find parks with waterplay features near you, check out the map. Enjoy a splash-filled summer in Cambridge!

https://www.cambridgema.gov/cdd/parks/waterplaymap

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Videos (show all)

Thank you to @foodforfreeorg for inviting @cambridgehealthysmiles and @cambmotion to join the Summer School Market Thurs...
During hot and humid weather, your body’s ability to cool itself is challenged in ways you may not expect. When your bod...
Keep kids👶 and pets 🐶🐱safe - never leave them alone in a car. 🚗 It can be deadly. We have extreme heat this week so this...
One of the basketball games at Hoops 'N' Health 2024. 🏀#cambridgema #cambma #basketball
Hoops 'N' Health is on Saturday, June 15 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Hoyt Field. Join us for games and activities for the ...
Happy Pride Month! It's a time to celebrate the Queer community, its history, and its accomplishments as well as keep fi...
Chief Public Health Officer Derrick Neal speaking at City Hall
Cambridge's Mayor Simmons states the proclamation for National Public Health Week. We are so grateful to her and her sta...
Daylight Saving Time Starts March 10
Happy Lunar New Year
Be Prepared this Winter!
Have COVID-19 questions or need support? Call our COVID-19 Hotline at 617-933-0797. Public health staff can answer quest...

Telephone

Address


119 Windsor Street
Cambridge, MA
02139

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Other Cambridge government services (show all)
MIT Libraries MIT Libraries
Massachusetts Institute Of Technology
Cambridge, 02139

For lots more info, visit us at http://libraries.mit.edu.

MIT Lewis Music Library MIT Lewis Music Library
Massachusetts Institute Of Technology, Room 14E-109
Cambridge, 02139

Check out this clip of Peggy Seeger from our archives: http://libraries.mit.edu/music/activities/seeger.html

Material Aid and Advocacy Program Material Aid and Advocacy Program
5 Longfellow Park
Cambridge, 02138

MAAP supports unhoused people through material aid, space, sweep support, & organizing for solutions.

Cambridge Women's Center Cambridge Women's Center
25 Mt Auburn Street
Cambridge, 02140

CWC is a physical and digital community space open to those for whom woman is a meaningful identifier

GLBTQ Domestic Violence Project GLBTQ Domestic Violence Project
955 Massachusetts Avenue PMB 131
Cambridge, 02139

GLBTQ DVP provides support and services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. 24 hr Domestic Violence Hotline: 800.832.1901

Boston Women's Fund Boston Women's Fund
678 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, 02139

We support community organizations run by women, girls & gender-expansive people in Greater Boston.

Youth On Fire Youth On Fire
1 Church Street
Cambridge, 02138

YOF is a confidential drop-in for young adults, 14-24 years old, experiencing unstable housing

Boston Area R**e Crisis Center: BARCC Boston Area R**e Crisis Center: BARCC
99 Bishop Allen Drive
Cambridge, 02139

BARCC's mission is to end sexual violence through healing and social change. 24-7 hotline: 800-841-8371 Office (Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.): 617-492-8306

Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program (Cambridge) Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program (Cambridge)
51 Inman Street
Cambridge, 02139

Six week summer jobs program for Cambridge residents 14-18

Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts, Harvard University Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts, Harvard University
24 Quincy Street
Cambridge, 02138

Carpenter Center for the Visual Arts is dedicated to the synthesis of art, design, and education.

Liberty Square Group Liberty Square Group
90 Sherman Street
Cambridge, 02140

Crafting strategic campaigns and driving public debate.

Innovation Studio Innovation Studio
1 Broadway
Cambridge, 02142

Innovation Studio is a non-profit organization which mission is to make Innovation, entrepreneurship