MetroWest Shared Public Health Services

08/31/2026

Today, we remember, raise awareness & take action. 💜

August 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day - a time to honor the lives lost to overdose, support those impacted, and continue working to prevent future loss.

Overdose is preventable, and everyone has a role to play. Learning the signs of an overdose, carrying naloxone (Narcan), and helping connect people to support can save lives. *Contact us or your local health department for free Narcan training and demonstration.

💜 If you or someone you know needs support, help is available. Call or text 988 for 24/7 crisis support, or visit HelplineMA.org for free and confidential substance use treatment and recovery resources.

08/28/2026

Earlier this month, Governor Maura Healey’s administration announced emergency action restricting the sale of kratom products in Massachusetts. With kratom and highly concentrated products like 7-OH receiving increased attention, it’s important to understand what these substances are and the potential risks associated with them.

Kratom comes from the leaves of a tree native to Southeast Asia and can produce stimulant-like or opioid-like effects. Products sold today can vary significantly in strength and ingredients, and concentrated 7-OH products may carry particularly serious risks, including addiction, dependence, and withdrawal.

This graphic from the MetroWest Shared Public Health Services breaks down what kratom is, how products can differ, potential health risks, and what the new Massachusetts restrictions mean.

Being informed is an important part of prevention. Please share this information with others in your community who may find it helpful.

🔗 Learn more at mass.gov/kratom

08/21/2026

We still have a few spots available for our FREE doula-led birthing class next Friday, August 28th in Ashland! 🤰💜

Expecting parents in their 2nd or 3rd trimester are welcome to join us for a supportive class focused on preparing for labor and birth. One partner or support person is also welcome to attend!

🔗 Register here: https://forms.gle/R9RhvmwwNfK8P3NM8

*Families outside of MetroWest area are also welcome to attend!

08/20/2026

08/11/2026

Our FREE doula-led birthing classes are back!🤰💜

These classes are a welcoming space for expecting parents to learn, ask questions, practice comfort techniques, and feel a little more prepared for labor, birth, and beyond.

💜Classes are open to expecting parents in their 2nd or 3rd trimester, along with one partner or support person.
💜 This session will be held in English.

Interested, or know someone who might be? Share this with an expecting parent in your life!

➡Register here: https://bit.ly/45feqn4

07/31/2026

Not all ticks look the same and they don't all spread the same diseases. 🕷️
Learning to recognize the most common ticks in our region can help you better understand your risk for tick-borne illnesses.

Put your knowledge to the test with our Guess That Tick challenge! Swipe through, make your guess, then reveal the answer to learn more about each tick and the diseases it may transmit.

Want to learn more about tick prevention and tick-borne diseases? Visit the CDC's tick resources: https://www.cdc.gov/ticks

💡Remember to check yourself, your children, and your pets after spending time outdoors.

07/16/2026

Cyclosporiasis has been making headlines recently, but what exactly is it?

Cyclosporiasis is a foodborne illness caused by a microscopic parasite that can lead to prolonged diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms.

❗While a small number of cases have been reported in Massachusetts this season, there is currently no evidence of a statewide cluster or outbreak.

Understanding the basics can help you protect yourself and know when to seek medical care.

👉 Swipe through to learn:
• What cyclosporiasis is
• Common symptoms to watch for
• Simple steps you can take to reduce your risk
• When it's time to contact a healthcare provider

Staying informed is one of the best ways to protect your health and the health of your family.

For more information, visit the CDC's Cyclosporiasis webpage: https://www.cdc.gov/cyclosporiasis/

07/09/2026

As temperatures remain high, it's important to recognize the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke. While heat exhaustion can often be treated by moving to a cool place and rehydrating, heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.

➡️ Swipe through to learn the warning signs, what to do if someone is experiencing heat-related illness, and where you can find places to cool off.

Looking for a beach or splash pad? Find some water close to you:

🌊 Massachusetts Interactive Beach Water Quality Dashboard: https://bit.ly/4f9Dv7s

🗺️ MetroWest Cooling Map (Splash Pads, Beaches, Pools & More):
https://bit.ly/4yctwHb

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and don't forget to check in on family, friends, and neighbors, especially older adults, young children, and anyone without access to air conditioning!

07/02/2026

What a pleasure having MetroWest Medical Center at our Community Baby Shower!

Paternships like these help to make our event even more successful and special for the communities we love to serve.

Thank you to all who participated, attended and supported this event! 🤗💛

07/02/2026

The Massachusetts Unhealthy Heat Alert began yesterday and is expected to continue through the holiday weekend. 🌞🌡🥵

❗High temperatures can increase the risk of heat-related illness, especially for older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, people with chronic medical conditions, and those who work or spend time outdoors.

Check out these easy steps to stay cool, stay hydrated, and remember to check on family, friends, and neighbors!

Learn more about the Massachusetts Unhealthy Heat Forecast and heat safety resources here: https://bit.ly/44GpnO1