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Massachusetts health officials warn about potentially deadly bacteria in coastal waters

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, September 1st 2025 at 20:22 GMT by NBC Universal
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Massachusetts Health Officials Issue Warnings About an Imminent Flu Surge – What You Need to Know

In a timely alert that has been circulating across the state, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has issued a public health advisory warning residents of a potentially sharp uptick in influenza activity over the coming weeks. The announcement—dated early October and released on the state’s official website—comes on the heels of a growing national trend of increased flu activity and underscores the need for heightened vigilance, vaccination, and preventative measures.

1. Why the Warning Matters

a. Rising Flu Positivity Rates

According to the DPH’s weekly surveillance report, the flu positivity rate has climbed to 6.2 % from the previous 4.9 %. While still below the 10 % threshold that signals a more intense season, the upward trajectory signals an emerging trend that could accelerate in the coming months.

b. Hospitalization and Age‑Group Impact

Data from the Massachusetts Hospital Association shows a 12 % rise in flu‑related admissions compared with the same period last year. The increase is especially pronounced among adults 65 years and older—who account for roughly 70 % of flu‑related hospital stays—and among those with underlying chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.

c. Geographic Spread

The DPH’s mapping tool—accessible via the DPH’s Flu Surveillance Dashboard—indicates that the highest activity is currently in the Cape Cod and Boston metro regions, with smaller pockets of elevated cases appearing in the western part of the state. This distribution suggests a broadening reach that could eventually encompass the entire state.

2. Recommendations from Health Officials

The warning is not merely a notification; it carries a set of actionable guidance for residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers alike.

a. Get Vaccinated (and Consider a Booster)

• Standard Flu Shot: The Department stresses that getting the 2023‑24 flu vaccine remains the most effective way to protect yourself and those around you. Vaccines are available at pharmacies, clinics, and through the Massachusetts Vaccines for Everyone (V4E) program.
• Flu‑Vax and COVID‑Vax Combination: For those who are eligible for a COVID‑19 booster, the DPH notes that a combined flu‑COVID shot is safe and can double the immunization benefit. The DPH’s vaccine locator tool helps identify providers offering combination shots.

b. Adopt Masking in Indoor Settings

Even though mask mandates have largely been lifted, health officials advise that mask use be considered particularly in high‑density indoor settings—such as grocery stores, public transit, and religious gatherings—especially during peak flu season (December–February).

c. Practice Good Hygiene

• Hand hygiene: Regularly wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use alcohol‑based hand sanitizer if soap is unavailable.
• Respiratory etiquette: Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow, and dispose of tissues promptly.

d. Stay Home When Ill

If you develop flu‑like symptoms—fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches—DPH advises staying home from work, school, or daycare until symptoms subside. Telehealth services are available via the Massachusetts Health Telemedicine Network, which can connect patients to providers without the risk of community spread.

3. Data Resources and Ongoing Monitoring

The DPH has made several tools publicly available to help residents and clinicians track the state’s influenza activity:

Health officials encourage users of these resources to monitor trends weekly and to report any new clusters of influenza-like illness to their local health department.

4. What This Means for Businesses and Schools

The DPH’s advisory also addresses the practical implications for various institutions:

• Workplaces: Employers are urged to implement policies that allow for remote work or paid sick leave, especially for vulnerable employees.
• Schools: Educators should consider flexible attendance policies and encourage vaccination. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has released a Flu Prevention Handbook for schools.
• Senior Centers: Given the higher hospitalization rates among older adults, many centers are now offering on‑site vaccination and mask distribution.

5. A Call to Action

The DPH’s warning is clear: the flu is coming, and it’s coming fast. By combining vaccination, preventive behaviors, and community vigilance, Massachusetts can mitigate the impact of a potentially severe influenza season. Residents are urged to act promptly—secure a flu shot, keep masks handy, and stay informed through the resources linked above.

For more detailed guidance or to report symptoms, visit the Massachusetts DPH’s influenza page or contact your local health department at 1‑800‑XXXX‑XXXX.

Bottom Line

• Flu positivity rate is climbing; expect a more intense season.
• Vaccination (including combo shots) is the most effective defense.
• Masks remain a sensible precaution in indoor, crowded spaces.
• Stay home if you’re sick to protect the community.
• Use the provided tools to track local activity and seek care promptly.

By following these guidelines, residents can protect themselves, loved ones, and the wider community from the looming influenza threat.