Uncovering hidden chemicals
Leah Burrows
Editor s note: Reprinted with permission from the Harvard Gazzette. T
he Harvard scientists in this study are part of the STEEP Superfund Research Program Center, a partnership between the University of Rhode Island, Harvard, and the Silent Spring Institute, working closely with the Town of Barnstable and the Barnstable Clean Water Coalition.
Researchers from the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) have found large quantities of previously undetectable compounds from the family of chemicals known as PFAS in six watersheds on Cape Cod using a new method to quantify and identify PFAS compounds. Exposures to some PFAS, widely used for their ability to repel heat, water, and oil, are linked to a range of health risks including cancer, immune suppression, diabetes, and low infant birth weight.
COVID vaccine update, PFAS webinar, chamber forum, pickleball, Register Notes
The Register
Phase 2 of the Commonwealth s vaccination distribution schedule will begin Monday, Feb. 1 for people age 75+.
Individuals ages 75 and over can visit www.mass.gov/COVIDVaccineMap to start booking an appointment for vaccine beginning Monday.
A map with all available locations is available at www.mass.gov/COVIDVaccineMap. Residents should visit the website, find a convenient location, and schedule an appointment online.
Have your important information with you, such as your insurance card, and fill out the self-attestation form, which will need to be presented at your appointment.
Please note: Due to extremely high demand for appointments and limited vaccine supply, it may take time to secure an available appointment. Residents are encouraged to keep checking the website as appointments are added on a rolling basis.