Public Health Updates as of October 16, 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.

You Can Help Inform Public Health Decisions in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is inviting residents to help shape future public health decisions by participating in the 2026 Community Health Equity Survey. The survey is available in 11 languages, anonymous, and only takes 10-15 minutes to complete. Take the survey now at mass.gov/HealthSurvey. CPHD uses the results of this survey to inform public health activities, so we encourage all community members to participate!

Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings at CHA

Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) holds its annual See, Test & Treat on October 23.  If you could not get an appointment in time (you can still attend the health fair), you may still be eligible for the Massachusetts Breast and Cervical Cancer Program located locally at CHA. The program helps low income people 40-64 years old with breast cancer services as well as people 21-64 years old with cervical cancer services. Learn more and see if you are eligible at CHA’s website. 

Food Recalls

• Krasnyi Oktyabr Inc. is recalling Starfish Seafood Trio packages, because the product has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes.
• Gardeners Basics and Eden Brothers are recalling broccoli sprouting seeds because they may be contaminated with Salmonella.