Transmission Type: Rodentborne

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Associated Diseases

Name	Transmission Type(s)
Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome	Rodentborne
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome	Airborne, Rodentborne
Leptospirosis	Foodborne, Rodentborne, Waterborne
Tularemia	Direct Contact, Mosquitoborne, Rodentborne, Tickborne, Waterborne
Salmonellosis	Foodborne, Rodentborne

From the Newsroom

It’s time to take Lyme seriously
- 8/27/19
Just in 2017, there were 5,323 confirmed cases of Lyme in New England, according to the Centers for Disease Control Read More
State Confirms 4th Human Case of EEE, Woman Reported Dies
- 8/27/19
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed a case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in a female over the age of Read More
Harmful Algal Blooms or “HABs”: How they can affect you, your children and your pets
- 7/9/19
Click here for the Town of Barnstable's latest cyanobacteria update - 9/11/19. Read More
Barnstable County lab could be at forefront of PFAS testing
- 6/13/19
The Barnstable County Water Quality Laboratory will soon add PFAS testing to its repertoire, becoming a trailblazer among public laboratories Read More
State pursues water quality standards
- 4/18/19
The Massachusetts DEP is reviewing guidelines for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), currently at 70 parts per trillion but proposed Read More
State Health Officials Warn of Possible Hyannis Measles Exposure
- 4/5/19
A person with a confirmed diagnosis of the illness visited the Whole Foods on Route 132 between 11:55 a.m. and Read More
Here’s what you should know about measles, after a warning last week
- 3/6/19
In the United States as of Feb. 21, the CDC has confirmed 159 cases so far this year in 10 Read More
Damaged lungs, degraded muscles: Why flu makes you feel so bad
- 1/2/19
We all know the symptoms of influenza infection include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue. But just what causes Read More
Dangers of Youth Vaping
- 1/2/19
Barnstable County’s Department of Health and Environment is warning of the dangers associated with e-cigarettes, particularly for young people. Department Read More
CDC: Natural Disasters and Severe Weather
- 1/2/19
Learn how to prevent cold-related health problems and protect yourself during all stages of a winter storm. Read More
Learn More about BCDHE Programs Here!
- 12/21/18
Barnstable Channel 18 interviews Department of Health and Environment staff to showcase some of our varied and valuable services. Read More
FDA unveils sweeping anti-tobacco effort to reduce underage vaping and smoking
- 11/20/18
On November 15th, the Food and Drug Administration launched a multi-pronged attack on the rising underage use of tobacco products, Read More
CDC: Food Safety Tips for the Holidays
- 11/20/18
Everyone can practice food safety during the holidays. Read More
Outbreak of E. coli Infections Linked to Romaine Lettuce
- 11/20/18
FOOD SAFETY ALERT! Read More
Prevent Illness from C. perfringens During the Holidays
- 11/20/18
Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) is one of the most common causes of food poisoning in the United States. CDC estimates C. Read More
Now’s the time to get your kids the flu vaccine
- 10/18/18
It’s only October, but we already have the first confirmed pediatric flu death of the season in the United States. Florida Read More
Barnstable County Emergency Personnel to Provide Hurricane Assistance in Florida
- 10/18/18
Members of the Barnstable County All Hazards Incident Management Team deployed yesterday to help with response and recovery efforts for Read More
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2018/2019 Flu Season
- 10/18/18
Click here for CDC's 2018-2019 Influenza Resources Read More
Cape Cod Cooperative Extension Releases “Tickology” Video Series
- 10/2/18
The Barnstable County Cape Cod Cooperative Extension has released its first digital video series, “Tickology,” premiering today on YouTube. Join Read More
Barnstable County to Receive Funding for Nicotine Prevention
- 8/21/18
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has announced $5.1 million in funding to discourage nicotine use in communities across the Read More
Chief ranger: “It was a shark bite” in Truro
- 8/16/18
A 61-year-old man was bitten by a shark at Long Nook Beach and suffered puncture wounds to his torso and Read More
All Your Back-to-School Vaccination Questions Answered
- 8/16/18
From preschool to college, here’s answers to the most commonly asked questions about necessary vaccines that should be on every Read More
USDA Provides Food Safety Tips to Keep Foodborne Illness Out of the Classroom
- 8/16/18
It’s the start of the new school year, which means new teachers, a bunch of homework assignments and the never-ending Read More
Health Officials: Go On In, The Water’s Fine
- 8/15/18
Good news: The fresh and salt waters of Harwich, Chatham and Orleans have remained clean and safe for swimmers all Read More
Barnstable County Officials Issue Tips Following West Nile Detections
- 8/15/18
With West Nile Virus detected in mosquitos from at least five Cape Cod towns, experts are issuing some tips on Read More
West Nile virus found in Cape mosquitoes
- 8/9/18
Test samples of mosquitoes infected with both West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis were found in Cape Cod towns Read More
Water Safety – Learn how to keep yourself and your children safe around water
- 7/11/18
You can stay safe while enjoying water by following these and some other tips Read More
Smoking and diabetes linked to brain calcifications
- 6/13/18
People who smoke or have diabetes may be at increased risk of calcifications in a region of the brain crucial Read More
Chatham, Harwich, Orleans and Brewster move forward with watershed pact
- 6/13/18
The pieces to the wastewater cleanup puzzle for Pleasant Bay are starting to come together. Town meetings this spring in Read More
Debate Continues On Whether Alum Treatments Are Worth Their Salt
- 6/13/18
Alum treatments, which have been used to improve pond health on Cape Cod by reducing the effects of phosphorus, remain Read More
Report: Cape’s skin cancer rate among nation’s worst
- 6/13/18
There’s a price to pay for years of unprotected fun in the sun. Several recent reports show that skin cancer Read More
Cape Cod’s Tick Expert Spreads Spring Awareness
- 5/8/18
The weather has started to improve on Cape Cod and the Islands, which brings an increased awareness about the presence Read More
One dead in E. coli outbreak; source of romaine still a mystery
- 5/2/18
One person has died in the E. coli outbreak linked to romaine lettuce. There are now 121 confirmed cases across Read More
Shining a Light on Sun Safety in the Workplace
- 5/2/18
Before heading to the beach or the pool, you likely consider items to bring to protect you from the sun. Read More
Illnesses from Mosquito, Tick, and Flea Bites Increasing in the US
- 5/2/18
Illnesses from mosquito, tick, and flea bites have tripled in the U.S., with more than 640,000 cases reported during the Read More
Lights Out: Recent Power Outages Raise Questions
- 3/21/18
Come snow, rain, wind or high water, there’s one thing on the minds of many Lower Cape residents as the Read More
Continuing storm coverage: power restoration continuing, shelters still open
- 3/15/18
12:00 p.m. update: Latest statement from BCREPC “At its 10 a.m. conference call, the Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning Committee (BCREPC) Read More
Baker visits Barnstable County Multi-Agency Coordination Center to discuss storm recovery
- 3/15/18
Gov. Charlie Baker joined Senator Vinny deMacedo, Senator Julian Cyr, Representative Sarah Peake, Representative Will Crocker, Representative Randy Hunt, Representative Read More
The end is near: Flu has ‘definitely peaked’ for the 2017-18 season
- 3/7/18
Flu has been shown the door in the United States. Illness activity peaked and began to decline during the eighth Read More
USDA Offers Food Safety Tips for Areas Affected by Winter Storms
- 3/7/18
Winter storms can present the possibility of power outages and flooding that can compromise the safety of stored food. Residents Read More
Retired Cape doctor named to national panel on tick-borne illness
- 3/1/18
An infectious-disease specialist from Falmouth with a long history of treating patients with Lyme disease has been appointed to a Read More
Cape prepares for powerful ocean storm on Friday
- 3/1/18
The Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning Committee on Thursday advised Cape Cod residents to be ready for a powerful, long-duration, Read More
Here’s what state health and hospital officials are saying about the flu in Massachusetts
- 2/12/18
According to the latest flu report from the state’s Department of Public Health, the Bay State has seen 8,152 laboratory-confirmed cases of Read More
US Flu Levels Continue to Climb as 37 Kids’ Deaths Confirmed
- 1/30/18
With seven more pediatric deaths reported last week and influenza-like illness (ILI) numbers that are nearing those seen during the Read More
The 2017-2018 Influenza Season: Stay Informed
- 1/30/18
Get the most up-to-date flu information from the Centers for Disease Control for the 2017-2018 flu season. Read More
Barnstable County Facing Severe Weather Threats
- 1/4/18
Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning Committee Media Release 03 – Storm Grayson January 4, 2018 For Immediate Release Barnstable County Read More
Barnstable County Prepares for Powerful Ocean Storm
- 1/3/18
Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning Committee Media Release 01 – January Storm January 3, 2018 For Immediate Release Barnstable County Read More
Cold Weather Safety Tips for Pets
- 1/2/18
Exposure to winter’s dry, cold air and chilly rain, sleet and snow can cause chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin, Read More
Stay Safe, Healthy and Warm during Cold Winter Weather
- 1/2/18
Read these tips from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how to prepare for winter storms, prevent cold-related Read More
Barnstable County Program Finances $40 Million in Septic Upgrades
- 12/12/17
BARNSTABLE (MA) December 12, 2017 – Since May 2006, the Barnstable County Community Septic Management Loan Program (CSMLP) has loaned Read More
Q&A: Why the Flu Vaccine Isn’t Always Effective
- 12/7/17
A doctor from Brigham and Women’s Hospital spells out what you need to know for the 2017-2018 flu season. Read More
I Never Get The Flu, So Why Do I Need A Flu Shot?
- 11/22/17
The seasonal flu is a contagious illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the respiratory tract. When people have the flu, some Read More
Can We Track Malaria and Zika by Sound?
- 11/22/17
Bioengineers led by Manu Prakash of Stanford University have developed a program that is able to distinguish mosquito species from Read More
Don’t be a Turkey, Practice Food Safety for Thanksgiving Meals
- 11/22/17
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture more than 45 million turkeys are consumed on Thanksgiving Day. That’s more than 45 Read More
Fresh Look at Cancer Shows Smoking, Obesity Top Causes
- 11/22/17
A fresh look at the causes of cancer has come up with some surprising numbers. While smoking is still by Read More
4 Common Myths about Vaccines
- 11/22/17
Over the years, vaccinations that help protect children from infectious diseases such as measles and mumps have saved hundreds of Read More
12 Ways to Health – Holiday Health and Safety Tips
- 11/21/17
The holidays are a great opportunity to enjoy time with family and friends, celebrate life, to be grateful, and reflect Read More
Barnstable County Offers Immunization Program
- 6/16/17
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states vaccines are one of the greatest public health interventions of the 20th century, Read More
Concerned about Vaccine Safety? Here are the Facts.
- 1/12/17
A wailing child, a needle-wielding doctor — what parent wouldn’t feel a twinge, at least for one heart-stopping moment, and Read More
Young Women Know About Skin Cancer Risks — But They’re Still Using Tanning Beds
- 1/12/17
Even though just about every young woman is aware that tanning can lead to skin cancer, as well as premature Read More
Doctors Reveal Photos of Zika’s Effects on 1st Person Infected in US by Virus
- 1/12/17
The first person to be infected locally during Florida’s Zika virus outbreak was nearly five months pregnant, according to a Read More
Want to Spare Your Pet From Cancer? Stop Smoking Cigarettes.
- 1/12/17
Researchers at the University of Glasgow in Scotland are urging pet owners who smoke to give up the habit for Read More
Study on Sun Protection Behavior, Skin Cancer Awareness
- 1/12/17
A large international survey on sun exposure behaviors and skin cancer detection found there are many imperfections and geographical inequalities Read More
Barnstable County Employee Named to Federal Committee
- 11/15/16
BARNSTABLE (MA) November 15, 2016 – A senior environmental specialist at the Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment has Read More
Cape Cod Hoarding Task Force Announces Free Support Groups
- 9/7/16
The Cape Cod Hoarding Task Force announces the availability of free peer support groups for compulsive acquiring, saving and hoarding during Read More
Rats! Reports Of The Furry Pests Surge in Mashpee
- 7/22/16
Mashpee health agent Glen E. Harrington has received significantly more reports and complaints of rats in residential Mashpee this year Read More
Chatham And Harwich To Receive New Sunscreen Dispensers
- 7/19/16
First, the bad news. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is being diagnosed at a rate faster than any Read More
Well Baby Fair to be Held May 28th
- 5/4/16
A “Well Baby Fair” is open to anyone interested in the health and safety of our littlest Cape Codders! Learn Read More
Hand-Me-Down Hazard: Flame Retardants in Discarded Foam Products
- 4/13/16
On 1 January 2015 California implemented the first U.S. rule mandating that certain products containing polyurethane foam be labeled to Read More
Vaccine to Reduce Rabies in Wildlife will be Distributed
- 4/8/16
PLYMOUTH, KINGSTON, CARVER, MIDDLEBOROR, ROCHESTER, MARION, BOURNE, FALMOUTH, SANDWICH, MASHPEE, BARNSTABLE, YARMOUTH & DENNIS If you find a vaccine/bait package: Read More
Pot Smokers May Face 5 Times Greater Risk of Alcohol Abuse
- 3/15/16
People who smoke pot may be five times more likely to develop a problem with alcohol, such as addiction, a Read More
Study Links Zika Virus to Brain Inflammation
- 3/15/16
A new study finds that Zika virus, which is already linked to paralysis and birth defects, also may be associated Read More
Many US Measles Cases Are in People Who Refuse Vaccines
- 3/15/16
Many U.S. measles cases occur in children whose parents refuse vaccines for religious or philosophical reasons, a new study suggests. Read More
Orleans’ citizen’s group points out new work by county
- 2/19/16
Orleans has been working on solving its wastewater issues for more than a decade, and within that time a few Read More
Binge Drinking Dangerous for Young Adults
- 2/19/16
Having an occasional drink is fine, but “binge” drinking is a known health hazard and now high blood pressure may Read More
Walgreens Pharmacy to Offer Naloxone, Medication Disposal in some Areas
- 2/11/16
Walgreens today announced the launch of a comprehensive new effort to combat drug abuse, introducing two programs that address key Read More
Zika Virus: What Happened When
- 2/10/16
Since it was first discovered in Uganda in 1947, Zika virus was known mostly as a short-lived and mild illness. Read More
New Lyme-disease-causing Bacteria Species Discovered
- 2/9/16
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in collaboration with Mayo Clinic and health officials from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Read More
Discounted Tick Testing Now Available
- 2/4/16
Cape Cod Cooperative Extension received a grant from Cape Cod Healthcare under their Community Benefits program for 2016. The grant Read More
3 projects, 6 towns, a cleaner Buzzards Bay: $575K in grants will reduce pollution from wastewater
- 2/2/16
Three Coalition-sponsored projects have received over $575,000 in federal grant money to seek new ways to solve Buzzards Bay’s nitrogen Read More
A County Composting Effort
- 2/2/16
Expanding composting capabilities on the Cape is the focus of the Barnstable County Food Waste Subcommittee of the Cape and Read More
Short Answers to Hard Questions About Zika Virus
- 1/28/16
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have warned pregnant women against travel to several countries in the Caribbean and Latin Read More
AmeriCorps Cape Cod members recruiting Barnstable County shelter volunteers
- 1/26/16
BARNSTABLE (MA) January 26, 2016 – As last weekend’s winter storm approached, the Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning Committee (BCREPC) Read More
Soil Absorption Could Be Breakthrough For Wastewater Treatment
- 1/26/16
Early data suggests that layered soil absorption septic systems could reduce nitrogen levels in residential wastewater by as much as Read More
Dangers that teens and kids face: A look at the data
- 1/15/16
Worrying about your kids is one of the defining traits of being a parent. But the nature of that worrying Read More
Backyard chickens harbor greater diversity of ticks, mites, and lice than farm-raised chickens
- 1/14/16
Backyard chickens may live a sweeter life than chickens on commercial poultry farms, but roaming green grass and scratching real Read More
Barnstable County REPC hosts HAZMAT training
- 1/11/16
On Friday, January 8, 2016, the Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning Committee (BCREPC) hosted a training session for Hazardous Materials Read More
E-Cigarette Ads Target Millions of Kids, CDC Says
- 1/5/16
E-cigarette makers are pouring tens of millions of dollars into advertising their wares — and teenagers are getting the message Read More
F.D.A. Proposes Ban on Indoor Tanning for Minors to Fight Skin Cancer
- 12/30/15
The Food and Drug Administration on Friday proposed barring everyone under 18 from using tanning beds, a sweeping move that Read More
Most who OD on opioids are able to get new prescriptions
- 12/29/15
More than 90 percent of people who survived a prescription opioid overdose were able to obtain another prescription for the Read More
Year in Review: Ebola Vaccines on the Way
- 12/16/15
The race to develop Ebola vaccines closed in on the finish line this year, as scientists tested two candidates that Read More
Chipotle Installing New Food Safety Protocols from the Ground Up
- 12/16/15
After being responsible within a six-month window for five outbreaks sickening at least 355 people with various pathogens and viruses — Read More
Wastewater Limitations Prove Troublesome To Economic Expansion In B. Bay
- 12/11/15
The issue of wastewater dispersal and treatment represents a major stumbling block to business development in Bourne’s downtown business area. Read More
Five Myths about the Common Cold
- 12/1/15
Several different viruses can cause the common cold, and one way for these viruses to spread is when an infected Read More
The Big Question: Do Pregnant Women Need the Flu Shot?
- 12/1/15
At 9:45 a.m. in early November, I walk into the exam room to see my patient, Maria Smith (not her Read More
Is My Sushi Safe? Why Government Regulation Is Coming to Sushi
- 12/1/15
I have been involved in the sushi industry since 2000 when my husband, Thihan Tun, and I opened Tun Asian Read More
What UV Light Does to Skin to Cause Sunburn, Wrinkles and Cancer
- 11/19/15
UV light causes everything from sunburn to skin cancer and the wrinkles and sagging that come with age. But what Read More
Smoking Ban Makes Sense in Public Housing
- 11/19/15
There’s a cruel irony about smoking: Those who can least afford to smoke are the ones most likely to. Higher-income, Read More
CDC Update: 838 Salmonella Cases in 38 States Linked to Imported Cucumbers
- 11/19/15
The latest update from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that, as of Nov. 18, 2015, 838 Read More
USDA: Alternatives to Antibiotics to Keep Food Animals Healthy
- 11/19/15
Antibiotics are lifesavers. We depend on them to treat bacterial infections and diseases, such as pneumonia, bronchitis and strep throat, Read More
8 Food Safety Tips to Remember This Thanksgiving
- 11/17/15
By taking the proper steps to prepare, cook and store your feast, your guests will remember the delicious meal – Read More
Understanding how Pharmaceuticals in the Environment Affect Fish
- 11/17/15
Fish health may be affected by pharmaceuticals in treated wastewater released into streams and other water bodies, according to a Read More
Smoking Rates Continue to Decline among U.S. Adults
- 11/17/15
The number of adults in the United States who currently smoke is 14.9%, according to new government statistics from the Read More
Minimum Age for Tobacco Sales Should Be 21, Say Pediatric Health Officials
- 10/28/15
Leaders in pediatric health are calling for the U.S. government to tighten regulations on cigarettes and tobacco products. On Monday, Read More
WHO: Eating Processed Meats Increases Chances of Developing Certain Cancers
- 10/28/15
After reviewing an assessment of the best available scientific evidence, the World Health Organization (WHO) has concluded that the consumption Read More
Food waste workshop to be held in Barnstable this Friday
- 10/28/15
A free workshop to help citizens, businesses and institutions understand and navigate the new Commercial Food Waste Ban will be Read More
AAP: Mandatory Flu Immunization of Health Care Workers Ethical, Necessary
- 10/21/15
The Academy has reaffirmed its support for a mandatory influenza immunization policy for all health care personnel (HCP) nationwide. Many Read More
No Alcohol during Pregnancy — Ever — Plead U.S. Pediatricians
- 10/21/15
In an effort to once and for all put a rest to any debate about drinking during pregnancy, the American Read More
Enterovirus D68 No Deadlier for Kids Than the Common Cold: Study
- 10/21/15
Enterovirus D68 made headlines in 2014 when it sickened scores of kids across North America, but a new study says Read More
The (Very Few) Upsides to Childhood Illnesses
- 10/21/15
It’s that time of year when nobody, especially children, seems to stay healthy. Of course, nobody likes to be sick, Read More
Early Freeze Ends Worries about West Nile, EEE
- 10/21/15
The temperature early Monday dipped below freezing in Boston. Not great news for people, or their tomato plants. But even Read More
Kids Hooked on Hookah: Flavored smoking hides the dangers of nicotine
- 10/21/15
A couple of years ago, I was walking down to a bookstore in West Hollywood when I noticed a group Read More
iPhone App Helps Detect Skin Cancer
- 10/21/15
A new app for iPhone called Mole Mapper lets you take a different kind of selfie: one that could end up Read More
Pilgrim Plant to Close by 2019
- 10/21/15
Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station will be closing by 2019, but Cape Cod’s plan for a radiological disaster will stay the Read More
Brewster Joins List of Towns Targeted for Dispensary
- 10/21/15
Proposals for four medical marijuana dispensaries are in the works for Barnstable County, with Brewster joining a list of target Read More
Doctors Anticipate Nasty Flu Season
- 10/6/15
It’s officially flu season. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu activity is currently low across the Read More
Health officials announce 7th human case of West Nile in Mass.
- 10/6/15
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced the seventh human case of West Nile virus in the state in 2015. Read More
Time to get clean: Formal recognition of drug pollution will help to protect humans and ecosystems.
- 10/6/15
Most nations have strict controls on environmental waste, from arsenic to zinc. Yet no legal limits have been set to Read More
Voices: Are e-cigs bad for you? I’m not sure.
- 10/6/15
Are e-cigarettes a savior for smokers, a lurking global danger … or both? You might think I’d know. After all, Read More
FDA: Be Careful of Unpasteurized Apple Cider This Fall
- 10/1/15
It’s PSL season again. For the uninitiated, this means that Starbucks is again selling its beloved Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL), Read More
Volunteer Reception Center Drill a Success
- 10/1/15
On Wednesday, the final training session for the Cape Cod Citizen Corps Council Volunteer Reception Center (VRC) program was held Read More
Wastewater: Plumbing All the Alternatives
- 9/24/15
Hidden away at the Otis Air National Guard Base in Buzzards Bay is the country’s largest alternative septic system test Read More
Sun Safety for Kids After Labor Day
- 9/9/15
The start of the school year doesn’t mean the end of sunscreen season for kids. “Counting both recess and sports, Read More
How to Keep Your Refrigerator Safe for Food
- 9/9/15
September is National Food Safety Education Month and this year, the Partnership for Food Safety Education, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Read More
BCREPC to Participate in Falmouth Emergency Preparedness Event
- 9/9/15
September is National Preparedness Month and the Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning Committee (BCREPC) is pleased to announce its participation Read More
Drug-Resistant Stomach Bug Gains a Foothold in the U.S.
- 8/17/15
The kinds of bacteria that can cause diarrheal ailments such as food poisoning lurk all around us. These germs, which Read More
Concerns Raised About Underage Smokers’ Access To Cheap Cigars
- 8/3/15
The recent failure of 11 stores throughout Bourne to pass a semi-annual tobacco sales compliance check has placed a spotlight Read More
What you should know about Salmonella if you keep backyard poultry
- 7/27/15
It’s not unusual to see soft and cute baby poultry put on display in agricultural feed stores, especially during the Read More
New Laws That Muzzle Doctors on Gun Safety Are Dangerous
- 7/23/15
We complain, in the U.S., that our doctors don’t know us: office visits last only a few minutes, conversations are Read More
Report: Food Recalls Have Nearly Doubled Since 2002
- 7/22/15
The number of U.S. food products recalled — and the costs associated with those recalls — have nearly doubled since Read More
A New Jellyfish Is Back in Town
- 7/22/15
Recent reports of a stinging jellyfish in Waquoit Bay are not a surprise to Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution scientists, who Read More
North Carolina Man Bitten by Rabid Dog
- 7/22/15
As a Macon man recovers from a rabid dog attack, Warren County Animal Control is urging area pet owners to Read More
North Dakota E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Fair Animals
- 7/22/15
Three children sickened in a recent E. coli outbreak in eastern North Dakota reported attending the Red River Valley Fair Read More
Confirmed Plague Case in Colorado
- 7/22/15
Chaffee County Health Department reported Friday, July 17 that bubonic plague has been confirmed in a Chaffee County resident recently. Read More
Behind Sunscreens’ Confusing Figures
- 7/15/15
It has been two years since new Food and Drug Administration rules regarding sunscreen labeling went into full effect. But Read More
Washington Child Bitten by Rabid Bat
- 7/13/15
Washington State Public Health Laboratories confirmed Wednesday that a bat, which bit a child on July 4 at Liberty Lake Read More
Wipes Manufacturer Will No Longer Claim Its Product Safe for Onsite Systems
- 7/9/15
A manufacturer of wet wipes has agreed to stop promoting its product as being flushable and will no longer claim Read More
Anti-vaccine trend has parents shunning newborns’ vitamin shot
- 7/7/15
With the recent U.S. measles outbreak, the issue of vaccine refusal has received growing scrutiny. Now doctors are calling attention Read More
A Hard Nut to Crack: Reducing Chemical Migration in Food-Contact Materials
- 7/6/15
When we buy food, we’re often buying packaging, too. From cherries to Cheez-It® crackers, modern foods are processed, transported, stored, Read More
Kansas Man exposed to rabies after encounter with sick fox
- 7/6/15
Animal Control officers are warning you to say way from wild animals. It comes after a man was exposed to Read More
Cape towns ban beach smoking
- 7/4/15
Mike Kelly could not have asked for a more beach-perfect day Friday, with a blazing sun and waves lapping quietly Read More
Plague Causing Bacteria Yersinia Pestis Was Once Harmless
- 7/3/15
Examining the genetic evolution of the Yersinia Pestis, the bacteria that caused epidemics like the Black Death, researchers found that Read More
One More Source of Air-Travel Stress: Catching the Measles
- 7/1/15
Last week, in its bulletin the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, the CDC said that a toddler traveling from India Read More
Study: Fireworks cause a toxic brew of unhealthy air
- 7/1/15
The thousands of Fourth of July fireworks celebrations across the nation bring a toxic brew of air pollution to our Read More
The Expanding Role of HACCP
- 6/30/15
The food safety management system known as HACCP has come a long way since its development for the American space Read More
Water and Sun Safety Day July 2 in Barnstable Village
- 6/30/15
With the arrival of the summer boating season, the Barnstable Fire Department, Barnstable Harbormaster, Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment, Read More
27 Confirmed Cases of Whooping Cough in 2015 in Barton County
- 6/25/15
There have been 27 cases of whooping cough confirmed by the KDHE [Kansas Department of Health and Environment] in Barton Read More
Is Beer the Next Frontier for Clean Water Utilities?
- 6/25/15
There is a ‘yuck’ factor associated with what has traditionally been called Toilet to Tap initiatives in the arena of Read More
Lyme Disease Research Now Has Home at Johns Hopkins
- 6/25/15
In a large step for research on Lyme, the tick-borne disease that costs the U.S. economy up to $1.3 billion Read More
Some shoppers confused about how to choose sunscreen
- 6/24/15
Most people know it’s important to use sunscreen, but they’re sometimes confused about how to choose the right protection or Read More
WHO agency says insecticides lindane and DDT linked to cancer
- 6/24/15
The insecticide lindane, once widely used in agriculture and to treat human lice and scabies, causes cancer and has been Read More
Food pantry fulfills growing need in Wellfleet
- 6/24/15
The Wellfleet Food Pantry was the place to be on Wednesday, June 3, as Sandy Galvin, the food pantry’s new Read More
USDA Food Safety Tips for Areas Affected by Severe Thunderstorms
- 6/23/15
The National Weather Service announced a severe thunderstorm watch for portions of New England into the Central Appalachians and Ohio Read More
State Matches Funds With Barnstable County for Water Quality Monitoring Program
- 6/23/15
The state has given Barnstable County $250,000 in matching funds to expand its marine water quality monitoring to include all Read More
Measles diagnosis on Martha’s Vineyard spurs public health alert
- 6/23/15
Martha’s Vineyard Hospital and state Department of Public Health (DPH) officials are working feverishly to prevent an outbreak of measles Read More
Great White Shark Research off Chatham To Begin This Week
- 6/23/15
The state’s foremost shark researcher Dr. Gregory Skomal will be heading out into the waters surrounding Cape Cod this week Read More
Scientists to breed ticks to study how to slow spread of diseases
- 6/15/15
To most people, ticks are loathsome, disease-riddled little bloodsuckers. Best avoided. To Roman Ganta, they’re a scientific subject worthy of Read More
Science Fair Winner Designs Device To Cut Virus Spread On Planes
- 6/15/15
When 17-year-old Raymond Wang saw the Ebola outbreak on the news last year, it got him thinking about viruses and Read More
Gov. Charlie Baker awards almost $400K to communities for drinking and wastewater infrastructure planning
- 6/15/15
The Baker-Polito administration has awarded nearly $400,000 in MassDEP grants to help over a dozen Massachusetts communities plan out infrastructure Read More
State approves Cape plan update
- 6/15/15
Gov. Charlie Baker has approved an update of a regional water-quality management plan for Cape Cod, sending it late last Read More
As mosquito-borne illnesses threaten U.S., less money spent fighting them
- 6/12/15
Diseases spread by mosquitoes pose a growing threat to the health of Americans, with the risk at its greatest during Read More
County Wastewater Plan Sent To State For Approval
- 6/12/15
A finalized version of the 208 Plan has been sent to the state and the Environmental Protection Agency for review, Read More
Freedom With Fries? Texas Official Wants Deep Fryers Back In Schools
- 6/12/15
A little more than 10 years ago, Texas banned soda machines and deep fryers in public school cafeterias. Now the Read More
Should Tanning Bed Warnings Take A Cue From Graphic Cigarette Labels?
- 6/12/15
Young white women like indoor tanning a lot. Nearly a quarter of them hit a tanning bed in the past Read More
Got Water? Most Kids, Teens Don’t Drink Enough
- 6/12/15
Most American children and teenagers aren’t drinking enough fluids, and that’s leaving them mildly dehydrated, according to a new study. Read More
Pregnant women may be unaware of possible e-cigarette risks
- 6/12/15
In a small U.S. study, nearly half of all pregnant women surveyed did not think electronic cigarettes contain nicotine or Read More
Antibiotic resistance in foodborne germs is an ongoing threat
- 6/10/15
Antibiotic resistance in foodborne germs, an ongoing public health threat, continued to show both positive and challenging trends in 2013, Read More
Tanning beds often available in college apartment buildings
- 6/10/15
Up to half of the apartment housing in close range of two Texas Universities offers free on-site indoor tanning, according Read More
Surfers wanted for ‘superbug’ study
- 6/9/15
Scientists are launching an investigation into antibiotic-resistant bacteria, known as “superbugs”, by gathering data from surfers’ rectums. “Beach Bums” is Read More
Massachusetts extends OSHA protections to state workers: It’s about ‘creating an infrastructure that supports health and safety’
- 6/9/15
Back in 1970 when the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration was established, local policymakers could choose whether or not Read More
Good cooking, free food and a blood pressure cuff
- 6/8/15
Getting blood pressure taken has never been so delicious — deliciously healthy, that is. The Falmouth Service Center on Gifford Street Read More
California Senate votes to raise smoking age to 21 from 18
- 6/3/15
The California Senate voted on Tuesday to raise the legal smoking age in the most populous U.S. state to 21 Read More
Volunteers Participate in Drill at Mashpee Wampanoag Government and Community Center
- 6/2/15
In case of an emergency or disaster, there could be many volunteers that want to donate their time to help Read More
Why Washing Chicken Before Cooking Is Unsafe
- 6/2/15
Like most people, you may believe that washing raw chicken prior to cooking is safe, or even prevents food-borne illness. Read More
D.C. doctor’s Rx: A stroll in the park instead of a trip to the pharmacy
- 6/2/15
Robert Zarr is walking from his Columbia Heights medical practice toward Meridian Hill Park, talking about what’s going on inside Read More
Air pollution is world’s top environmental health risk, WHO says
- 6/2/15
The assessment was reached at the first ever discussion on air pollution and its health impacts at WHO’s World Health Assembly, Read More
This new Cape tick is Texas tough
- 6/2/15
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it “We have a new Read More
Construction of $46 Million Water Filtration Plant Underway in Falmouth
- 6/1/15
Crews from Methuen Construction broke ground earlier this month on Falmouth’s new water filtration plant on Long Pond. The $46.5 Read More
Tabletop Exercise to Focus on Mass-casualty HAZMAT Incident
- 6/1/15
The Barnstable County Regional Emergency Planning Committee (BCREPC) announces its annual Barnstable County REPC tabletop exercise to be held on Wednesday in Read More
Researchers’ discovery may explain difficulty in treating Lyme disease
- 6/1/15
Northeastern University researchers have found that the bacterium that causes Lyme disease forms dormant persister cells, which are known to Read More
How to Prevent Lyme Disease
- 6/1/15
Before gardening, camping, hiking, or just playing outdoors, make tick bite prevention part of your outdoor plans. Lyme disease is Read More
Breath-Holding In The Pool Can Spark Sudden Blackouts And Death
- 6/1/15
There’s a dare that floats out on hot days by the pool: Who can hold their breath the longest? In Read More
High rates of MRSA transmission found between nursing home residents, healthcare workers
- 6/1/15
Healthcare workers frequently contaminate their gloves and gowns during every day care of nursing homes residents with drug resistant Staphylococcus Read More
A simple diagnostic test to detect tuberculosis in humans
- 6/1/15
Tuberculosis (TB) represents a growing worldwide healthcare burden. Second only to HIV in terms of its global impact, TB infected Read More
What We Know About Tattoo Reactions Only Goes Skin-Deep
- 5/28/15
For about as long as there have been humans, it seems there have been tattoos. Ötzi the Iceman, the 5,000-year-old Read More
DA: Cause Most Likely Accidental In Sagamore Carbon Monoxide Death
- 5/28/15
SAGAMORE – The District Attorney’s office has released the name of the man who died of carbon monoxide poisoning at a Read More
CDC: Raw tuna suspected as Salmonella source in outbreak
- 5/27/15
No deaths have been reported. But 10 people have been hospitalized, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Read More
Canada salmonella outbreak leaves 34 people sick after poultry contact
- 5/27/15
Canadian health authorities are investigating after 34 people became sick with salmonella infections after contact with live baby poultry, the Read More
To prevent whooping cough in newborns, vaccinate pregnant moms
- 5/22/15
Vaccinating pregnant women against whooping cough is the best way to protect their newborns from respiratory infections that can prove Read More
Fact or Fiction?: A “Base Tan” Can Protect against Sunburn
- 5/22/15
As the weather warms, many of us would prefer to look like we passed our winter days lounging by the Read More
South Korea confirms second case of MERS virus; third case possible
- 5/21/15
South Korean health officials have confirmed the country’s second case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) in a patient who Read More
Single motherhood tied to poorer health in later life
- 5/21/15
Raising a child alone may take a lasting toll, leading to poorer health and more struggles with daily tasks after Read More
5 sent to hospital after Wellfleet hazmat scare
- 5/18/15
Five emergency responders went to Cape Cod Hospital early this morning over concerns they had been exposed to a hazardous Read More
Bacteria May Be Remaking Drugs in Sewage
- 5/14/15
Wastewater treatment plants not only struggle removing pharmaceuticals, it seems some drugs actually increase after treatment. When researchers tested wastewater Read More
CDC data show progress in reducing some foodborne infections in 2014
- 5/14/15
In 2014, rates of infection from a serious form of E. coli and one of the more common Salmonella serotypes Read More
Nauset Estuary and Town Cove closed to shellfishing
- 5/14/15
All of Nauset Estuary and Town Cove in the towns of Orleans and Eastham are closed for shellfishing due to Read More
Melanoma Education Foundation Spring Newsletter
- 5/14/15
The Spring 2015 Melanoma Education Foundation Newsletter is now available online. From the MEF website: “In most cases, melanoma is Read More
Eastham Town Meeting Approves $85 Million Water Project
- 5/13/15
Eastham Town Meeting enthusiastically approved $85 million for the second phase of the once-controversial town water project. Vigorous applause followed Read More
Tick-killing robot called TickBot tested in Brewster
- 5/13/15
Bloodsucking parasites beware, the TickBot is in town. Researchers tested a tick-killing robot at Nickerson State Park in Brewster Tuesday Read More
Americas region is declared the world’s first to eliminate rubella
- 5/13/15
The Americas region has become the first in the world to be declared free of endemic transmission of rubella, a Read More
12.5 Percent of Adults Do Not Take Medication as Prescribed to Save Money
- 5/11/15
The figure above is a bar chart showing that in 2013, 12.5% of adults overall who were prescribed medication by Read More
Building Better Bugs: Canadian Facility Studies Biological Nutrient Removal
- 5/11/15
Research performed at a wastewater treatment facility in Calgary, Canada, might one day help develop better processes for removing contaminants, Read More
Household Chemicals Show Up Just About Anywhere Researchers Look
- 5/11/15
Modern American life is full of synthetic chemicals – medicines, cosmetics, soaps and shampoos, household cleaners, non-stick cookware, and stain-resistant Read More
A deadly shadow: Measles may weaken immune system up to three years
- 5/11/15
The measles virus is known to cast a deadly shadow upon children by temporarily suppressing their immune systems. While this Read More
Despite Recent Measles Outbreak, Resistance To Vaccinations Persists
- 5/8/15
A measles outbreak linked to Disneyland has exposed gaps in immunization against the highly infectious disease. All told this year, Read More
Time to move Lyme Disease Awareness Month to April?
- 5/8/15
The month of May brings many things, among them Mother’s Day, tulips, and Lyme Disease Awareness campaigns. But according to Read More
Water community highlights theme “What do you know about H₂O?” during Drinking Water Week
- 5/4/15
The American Water Works Association and the water community kicked off Drinking Water Week across North America today by asking Read More
Rubella Has Been Eliminated From the Americas, Health Officials Say
- 5/4/15
Rubella, a disease with terrible consequences for unborn children, has finally been eliminated from the Americas, a scientific panel set Read More
Chickenpox virus can cause stroke in HIV patients, according to study
- 5/4/15
Patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can, in rare cases, experience bleeding on the brain that causes a type Read More
Pit bull is patient zero in Colorado’s cases of plague
- 5/2/15
A pit bull was at the heart of a rare plague outbreak in Colorado that left four people sick last Read More
E-cigarette use triples among middle and high school students in just one year
- 4/21/15
Current e-cigarette use among middle and high school students tripled from 2013 to 2014, according to data published by the Read More
Childhood Trauma Linked to High Blood Pressure Later in Life
- 4/16/15
Traumatic events during childhood – as well as growing up with abuse, neglect or a dysfunctional family – may increase Read More
Why Knuckles Crack
- 4/16/15
Scientists think they may have solved an old question about the cracking of knuckles: Why does it make that sound? Read More
Cutting prices can be an effective way to get people to buy more fresh produce
- 4/16/15
Researchers from Deakin University’s Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research (C-PAN) have highlighted the importance of lower prices as Read More
President declares disaster for Massachusetts
- 4/14/15
Some called the big end of January storm the Blizzard of 2015, some called it Juno. The government will here Read More
Rabies Vaccine Bait Distribution set to Start April 20
- 4/14/15
Spring rabies vaccine bait distribution is set to start on April 20. For approximately four weeks, bait will be distributed Read More
‘Flushable’ Wipes Blamed for Sewer Clogs
- 4/14/15
Increasingly popular bathroom wipes — pre-moistened towelettes that are often advertised as flushable — are being blamed for creating clogs Read More
Lifelong Health begins before Birth
- 4/14/15
We’ve long known that a pregnant mother’s alcohol and tobacco use can harm a developing fetus, but we’re now learning Read More
Eating out Raises Risk for High Blood Pressure
- 4/14/15
Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure is the main risk factor for cardiovascular disease-associated death. In hypertension, the greater Read More
FDA Panel Opposes Dropping Warnings from Tobacco Pouch
- 4/10/15
Government advisers recommended against a proposal by Swedish Match to market its smokeless tobacco pouches as less harmful than cigarettes Read More
Children with Neurological Disorders need Flu Vaccine but don’t always get it
- 4/10/15
Children who have neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy or epilepsy are no more likely to be vaccinated against influenza Read More
Researchers Develop Ebola Vaccine Effective in a Single Dose
- 4/8/15
An interdisciplinary team from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston and Profectus BioSciences, Inc. has developed a quick-acting Read More
Massachusetts Dairy Operation Agrees to Permanent Injunction
- 4/8/15
On April 3, 2015, the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts on behalf of the U.S. Food and Read More
Childhood ADHD Linked to Secondhand Smoking
- 4/7/15
Children exposed to tobacco smoke at home are up to three times more likely to have attention deficit hyperactive disorder Read More
New Study Looking to Detect and Treat Hoarding Disorder in Childhood
- 4/7/15
Hoarding is a debilitating disorder that can have a devastating impact on those with the condition, their families and the Read More
Don’t let Complex Language keep you from Drinking Tap Water
- 4/7/15
With the rise in bottled water and sugary beverage alternatives, regular tap water is struggling to make its way into Read More
A Dark Night is Good for your Health
- 4/6/15
Today most people do not get enough sleep. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has called insufficient sleep an Read More
Ultrasounds Reveal Effects of Smoking During Pregnancy
- 4/6/15
Know someone who’s smoking while pregnant? They need to see this. Dr Nadja Reissland, of Durham University, said the ultrasound Read More
The Science of Why Chicken Goes Bad So Quickly
- 4/2/15
Food-borne bacteria are the primary cause of spoilage and food poisonings. Thriving in moist, low-acid environments where lots of protein Read More
Multidrug-resistant Shigellosis Spreading in the United States
- 4/2/15
International travelers are bringing a multidrug-resistant intestinal illness to the United States and spreading it to others who have not Read More
Too much iced tea caused US man’s kidney problems
- 4/2/15
Doctors traced a man’s kidney failure to an unusual cause—his habit of drinking a gallon (almost four liters) of iced Read More
National Immunization Awareness Month
- 8/5/14
Adults Need Vaccines, Too! Barnstable County Public Health Nurses Celebrates National Immunization Awareness Month Every year, thousands of adults in Read More
New stock of Potassium Iodide (KI) pills available for the general public
- 8/21/13
BARNSTABLE – The Barnstable County Department of Health & Environment (BCDHE) announces the availability of Potassium Iodide (KI) pills for Read More
Flu Questions and Answers from the Centers of Disease Control
- 1/14/13
Common questions and answers from the CDC’s flu expert Dr. Michael Jhung at http://www.publichealthnewswire.org/?p=6190. Read More
Yank That Tank!
- 12/21/12
YANK that TANK! Residential Underground Storage Tank LOAN PROGRAM 0% Interest Loans For Tank Removal! Residential Underground Storage Tank (RUST) removal loans are 0% interest and Read More
Flu Activity
- 12/5/12
CDC Influenza Key Points Nov 30 2012 v 2 Read More
Emergency Preparedness Open House
- 9/12/12
September is National Preparedness Month! To commemorate this, the Cape Cod Citizens Corps Council is sponsoring: Family Emergency Preparedness Open Read More
Brown Bag Lunch Series
- 8/23/12
Join us for our lunchtime information sessions. Each week will feature a new topic and a new speaker. All lectures Read More
Latest Stats for Tick-borne Illnesses
- 8/17/12
I did an informal basic line report to do a little comparison between the number of Babesiosis cases, Rocky Mountain Read More
Immunization Information
- 8/3/12
http://www.wcvb.com/health/Record-number-of-Mass-kindergartners-skip-vaccines/-/9848730/15702344/-/pcb9ez/-/index.html Go to this link to view a recent report by Channel 5 Boston. http://www.capecodonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120725/OPINION/207250335/-1/OPINION01 Go to this link to Read More
Cape Cod Mosquito Control PSA
- 7/19/12
The sound of the rain reminds us that this would be a good time to take a walk around your Read More
Cape Cod Chapter of the Massachusetts Association of Public Health Nurses
- 7/18/12
Are you a public health nurse here on the Cape and want to join your professional organization? Now the MA Read More
Protect Yourself: Facts on Mosquito Repellants
- 7/18/12
Information on mosquito repellents is available at Mass.gov and is also available in Espanõl Read More
Follow the county public health nurse
- 6/22/12
You can now follow the day to day activities of the Barnstable County Public Health nurse. See the day to Read More
Indoor Tanning
- 5/10/12
Here are some articles regarding the dangers of indoor tanning, which, by the way, is being allowed at some local Read More
Rabies Community Event- April 4, 2012
- 3/28/12
Read More
2012 Rabies vaccine Clinics
- 3/28/12
Read More
Countywide dispatch plan could save millions
- 1/6/12
From The Cape Cod Times – BARNSTABLE — Local officials were briefed Thursday on a regional emergency dispatch study that Read More
National Preparedness Month – Interview Link
- 9/9/11
BCREPC Chairman, Mashpee Fire Chief George Baker, and Co-Chairman, Dennis Police Department Chief Michael Whalen, discuss emergency preparedness on Cape Read More
BCDHE Irene Response
- 8/30/11
Below are a few articles pertaining to the Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment’s efforts leading up to and Read More
Project spotlights sun protection
- 8/12/11
From the Cape Cod Times – CENTERVILLE — As the sun plays cat and mouse with clouds above Cape Cod Read More
Free Money
- 7/25/11
Well not exactly. Under a new initiative the Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment (BCDHE) will offer the first Read More
Tick talks target Martha’s Vineyard elementary school students
- 6/24/11
MVTimes.com – “There’s a giant tick,” a first-grader exclaimed as he recently walked into the Tisbury School gymnasium. But as Read More
Germany E. coli Outbreak Information
- 6/3/11
Information from the CDC about the E. coli outbreak in Germany: CDC Investigation Announcement – June 7, 2011 CDC Travel Read More
MRC Explorer Post 911 Holds Information Meeting
- 1/13/11
The Cape Cod Medical Reserve Corp held an informational meeting for it’s new Learning for Life Explorer Post 911. Kids Read More
Medical Reserve Corps Seeks Youth Volunteers
- 1/11/11
From the Barnstable Patriot “Post 9/11,” although the phrase brings horrific memories for their elders, can bring a new meaning Read More

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