Health

Attention Blandford Residents: Bear Warning

Coexist with black bears in MA

Please be aware that in the area of Kaolin Road, there have been multiple bear sightings. The bear(s) have been observed coming into and around resident’s yards. The Health Department is working diligently to address this issue and in an abundance of caution, wants all residents to be “bear aware”.

We have been in contact with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, and are following all the necessary steps on our end to help keep our residents safe. Please visit the Mass.gov bear resources page for more information on how to prevent conflicts and encounters with bears.

August 8, 2024 in Community, Health

Massachusetts sees a rise in foodborne illness caused by Cyclospora

Residents reminded to follow food safety guidelines

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is urging residents to practice safe food handling practices following an increase in reported infections of Cyclospora, a foodborne illness that causes gastrointestinal symptoms, mainly diarrhea, that can sometimes be severe.

Since May 1, 2019, there have been more than 100 reports of Cyclospora infection cases in the state, when, over the past three years, DPH has received between 18 and 33 reported cases. Most cases this year have occurred in greater Boston, but infections have been reported in residents across the Commonwealth. Other states have also reported increases in the number of cyclosporiasis cases; the cause of the outbreak is not yet known.

• Read the full press release from the Massachusetts Department of Health here.
• Learn more about cyclospora here.

July 23, 2019 in Board of Health, Community, Health

Cooling Station in Town Hall (7/20 & 7/21)

In response to the forecast for excessive heat and humidity this weekend, the Council on Aging room, in Town Hall, will be open this Saturday and Sunday from 1:00pm to 5:00pm as a local cooling center if any resident needs a place to cool off. Be sure to stay hydrated and check on the wellbeing of family, friends, neighbors, and pets/animals.

July 19, 2019 in Community, Health