Public Health Updates as of June 11, 2026

To keep the community updated on public health developments, the Cambridge Public Health Department (CPHD) will provide regular updates on its website and in a dedicated space in the city’s daily email. Look for a recap of important public health information every other week.

Summer Safety

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health released their summer safety guidance. It covers everything from tick bite prevention to summer car safety. The guidance is a good refresher for staying safe and healthy this summer. As Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein notes “Stay hydrated, use insect repellent, be mindful around bodies of water, and prepare for severe weather, including extreme heat, to help make for a fun and healthy summer for all.” 

Soccer Safety and Health

Attending one of the big soccer games or viewing one of the games at one of the city’s Cambridge United outdoor screenings? No one wants to leave early feeling sick, so follow these important tips: Make sure to stay hydrated and drink water throughout the game to avoid dehydration and heat related illnesses. Wear sun protection (clothing, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen) if attending a day game or watch party to avoid sunburns. If attending a night game or watch party, remember to wear bug repellent. 

New Sunscreen Options

The FDA added bemotrizinol to the list of permitted sunscreen active ingredients. It is the first new active ingredient added since the 1990s. The new ingredient has been marketed as a sunscreen ingredient in many countries for years. Bemotrizinol provides protection against both ultraviolet A and B rays and has low levels of absorption through the skin into the body. The FDA considers bemotrizinol to be generally recognized as safe and effective by adults and children 6 months of age and older. 

Baby Wipes Recall

Target is voluntarily recalling Up & Up Fragrance Free and Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes as these products might be contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia and Burkholderia gladioli. Use of these contaminated products may result in serious and life-threatening infections. See the recall list.