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Health Happenings
Last Updated: July 16, 2026
Stay informed about current public health concerns, campus health guidance, and important health-related announcements. For questions or support, contact University Health Services.
Announcements:
- Food Safety Alert: Cyclospora & Summer Foodborne Illnesses: More cases of Cyclospora are being reported this summer. Learn about symptoms, prevention, and when to seek medical care. Read more below:
About Cyclospora
Every summer, foodborne illnesses become more common as warmer temperatures create conditions that allow harmful germs and parasites to spread more easily. This year, public health officials are reporting an increase in Cyclospora infections.
Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that can contaminate food and water, particularly fresh produce. Unlike many stomach illnesses, Cyclospora is not spread from person to person. If multiple people become sick together, they were most likely exposed to the same contaminated food or water source.
Symptoms may include:
- Watery diarrhea that may last for weeks
- Stomach cramps and bloating
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Low-grade fever
Symptoms typically develop 2 days to 2 weeks after exposure and may improve and then return.
Prevention:
- Wash fresh produce before eating or preparing it.
- Cook foods thoroughly whenever appropriate.
- Wash your hands before preparing or eating food.
- Stay informed about food recalls and outbreak investigations.
Foods linked to previous Cyclospora outbreaks include cilantro, basil, raspberries, blackberries, bagged lettuce, snap peas, and snow peas.
If You Become Sick:
- Stay well hydrated.
- Consider an oral rehydration solution or electrolyte drink if diarrhea is severe.
- Talk with your healthcare provider before taking anti-diarrheal medications.
- Seek medical care if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by signs of dehydration.
- Prescription antibiotics can effectively treat Cyclosporiasis when appropriate.
- Measles Awareness & Vaccination: Outbreaks continue to be reported across the United States. Review symptoms, vaccination recommendations, and prevention strategies. Learn more.
- Tick-Borne Disease Prevention: Protect yourself from tick bites and learn the signs of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Learn more.
- Heat & Hydration Safety: Stay safe during hot weather with tips on hydration, heat illness prevention, and warning signs to watch for. Learn more.
- Mosquito Safety: West Nile Virus & EEE Awareness: Reduce your risk of mosquito-borne illnesses and stay informed about activity in Massachusetts. Learn more.
COVID-19
Keep current with our procedures in response to COVID-19. Learn more about symptoms and emergency warning signs, testing guidance and options, isolation and exposure protocols, and vaccination eligibility and access. Visit UMass Boston's COVID-19 Campus Update page for the latest information on campus policies.
Seasonal Influenza
Protect your health year-round. Explore the symptoms and how it spreads, prevention tips and treatments, benefits of antivirals, and vaccination access.
Choices Regarding Pregnancy
Access resources for pregnancy planning and decision-making, as well as privacy tips for research, pregnancy prevention options, and support and legal guidance
Environmental Health
From climate change and extreme heat to air quality and microplastics, learn how environmental factors can affect physical and mental health and discover ways to reduce exposure and protect your well-being.
Gambling & Sports Betting
Identify the risks of problem gambling and discover support measures. Read more from The Network for Public Health Law here.
Party Drugs & Substance Use
Stay informed about party drug risks and harm-reduction strategies. Discover resources such as drug dangers and warnings, overdose prevention tips, treatment and community support.
Skin Cancer Prevention
Learn about our Skin Smart Campus initiative and how to protect your skin, including sun safety practices and self-exams for early detection.