The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has informational resources and programs available to assist healthcare providers and residents with questions and concerns around Zika virus and its health effects. If these resources do not address your needs or you require additional information, please contact the Massachusetts Department of Health’s (MDPH) Epidemiology Program (available 24/7) at 617-983-6800.
MDPH Resource Page –information for both healthcare providers and residents. Includes the most current clinical advisories and testing guidance for use in Massachusetts as well as how to prevent Zika infection during travel to areas with Zika virus.
Early Intervention Services – information on Early Intervention (EI) services in Massachusetts. A child may be eligible for EI if: 1) they are not reaching age-appropriate milestones in one or more areas of development, 2) they are diagnosed with certain conditions that may result in a developmental delay, or 3) they have a medical or social history (exposure to Zika) which may put the child at risk for developmental delay. Anyone (a parent, doctor, caregiver, teacher or friend) can refer a child to a certified EI program. To find a listing of programs by city call 1-800-905-8437 or visit the Mass. Family TIES website at massfamilyties.org/ei/eicity.php
Division for Children and Youth with Special Health Needs – works to support children and youth with special health needs and their families. These children have or are at increased risk for a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional condition and who also require health and related services of a type or amount beyond that required by children generally.
- Community Support Line – provides information, technical assistance, and resources for healthcare providers or families with children and youth with special health needs: 617-624-6060 or 1-800-882-1435
- Family TIES of Massachusetts (an MDPH-funded project of the Federation for Children with Special Needs) – provides information and referral services, emotional support, and trainings to parents of children and youth with special needs: 1-800-905-TIES (8437) or 508-792-7880 Ext. 2337
- Newborn Hearing Screening Program – information for parents about checking your child’s hearing and resources for parents of children with hearing loss
Woman Infants and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program – nutrition program that provides healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare and other services
Health Insurance – information on MassHealth which combines Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). MassHealth members may be able to get doctor visits, prescription drugs, hospital stays, and many other important services.
State-Based Non-Profit Organizations
Massachusetts Family Voices – provides support to families with children and youth with special health care needs
