Article Type: The Care We Share

  • Protect Your Children Heading Back to School

    School children in Massachusetts, from kindergarten and grade school to college are required to have vaccinations for DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, or whooping cough), Polio, MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella or German Measles), Hepatitis B, and Varicella. In addition, students entering grades 7 and 11 must be vaccinated for meningococcal conjugate with what’s called…

  • Managing Back-to-School Colds: Helping Kids Stay Healthy This School Year

    Most back-to-school colds are mild and can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and supportive care. Still, knowing how to prevent illness, when to keep children home, and when to seek medical care can help families stay prepared and avoid unnecessary trips to the Emergency Department. Why Colds Spread Quickly When School Starts Schools…

  • Start the School Year Strong with a Back-to-School Health Checklist

    Planning for a Healthy School Year Annual physicals, sports clearances, vaccines, and preventive care visits help make sure students are ready for the school year ahead. Scheduling early can help families avoid the last-minute rush once school begins. During a back-to-school visit, your child’s provider can review growth and development, school or sports forms, vaccination…

  • Heat Stress: What to Watch for This Summer

    Hot weather causes your heart to pump more blood and increases your heart rate. Dehydration can lower blood pressure and make it harder for your body to function properly. Together, these stressors can raise the risk of serious events like heart attack or stroke.  Know the Warning Signs Watch for early symptoms of heat-related illness: …