Maryland Department of Health
The Maryland Department of Health works to protect and advance the health and well-being of all Marylanders through systems that work for people.
- Join the Center for Firearm Violence Prevention and Intervention for a webinar focused on preventing youth firearm violence among young men in Maryland. This session will examine the contributing factors and highlight initiatives to reduce firearm violence. Register to attend: bit.ly/3NP8H1X.
- If you're expecting, get prenatal care and prenatal screening to help protect your baby’s health. Learn more and find testing at health.maryland.gov/pregnancycare. #PrenatalInfectionAwarenessMonth
- The Maryland Department of Health celebrates 30 years of PACE in Maryland! PACE helps older adults age safely at home. Hopkins ElderPlus, Maryland’s first PACE center, has provided all-inclusive medical and supportive services for three decades. Visit: bit.ly/3DGtS1l.
- If you think you have the flu, stay home and drink plenty of fluids. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you are at high risk for severe flu, contact your doctor for treatment options. Learn more: health.maryland.gov/flu.
- The Lunar New Year is almost upon us! 2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse, which symbolizes energy that drives you forward. Now is the time to become smoke-free and feel healthier. Free, confidential support to keep you smoke-free is available 24/7 at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or by texting READY to 34191.
- Grief is a natural response to loss. Loss can take many forms, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, losing a job, or losing independence due to a disability. Recognize the signs of grief and know where to find support at bit.ly/44blVIs.
- Radon and secondhand smoke increase the risk for children developing lung cancer later in life. You can't see or smell it, so testing your home is the only way to know if radon is present. Learn more about radon safety and how to find radon test kits: health.maryland.gov/radon.
- When it seems like everyone around you is getting sick, you don’t have to go with the flow! Get your flu shot to protect against severe illness, and practice prevention with healthy habits. Learn more: health.maryland.gov/vaccines.
- During Blood Donor Month, we thank those who give blood throughout the year to help patients in need. Learn how you can make a difference by giving blood: redcross.org/giveblood.
- The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) believes that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the right to direct their lives and services. Learn about DDA and its six focus areas: bit.ly/43ZpuDG.
- Stay warm Maryland! Check on older neighbors and relatives and ensure they have adequate heat. If you or someone you know needs assistance with paying the heating bill, @mdhumanservices.bsky.social can help. Learn more: bit.ly/3YMlILM.
- Participants in the Developmental Disabilities Administration’s Community Pathways Waiver program have the option to choose the services they receive, how they receive them, and who provides them. Learn more about the Self-Directed Service Model: bit.ly/4nkCQSD.
- Vaccines are our best tool to fight severe illness & disease. Maryland will continue to follow the American Academy of Pediatrics’ childhood vax schedule, updated today (Jan. 26, 2026), reaffirming recommendations for vaccinating children against 18 diseases. Learn more: bit.ly/45vDSFk.
- Where you live shapes your health. From asthma and lead exposure to car seat safety, the conditions in and around your home matter. The Maryland Healthy Homes Program connects families with resources to make homes safer and healthier. Learn more: bit.ly/4pGUSjk.
- Winter driving can be hazardous. ⚠️ Slow down to keep yourself and everyone on the road safe. Remember, ice and snow, take it slow. Learn more: bit.ly/4qg5OWF.
- With $168 million in new federal funding, the Maryland Department of Health are excited to continue efforts to strengthen the health care workforce, improve access to care, and support healthy food in Maryland’s rural communities.
- On Maternal Health Awareness Day, learn about the Maryland Department of Health's prenatal programs and services that support healthier pregnancies and births: bit.ly/4aVGlfT.
- Before a winter storm strikes, ensure your family is prepared. Create an emergency kit for your home and car with essentials like flashlights, blankets, and non-perishable food. Fully charge mobile devices and keep a portable charger on hand. Learn more: bit.ly/4r9cdm9.
- When it seems like everyone around you is getting sick, take preventive measures to stay healthy! Start by getting a flu shot to protect against severe illness and adopt healthy habits to prevent getting sick.
- The Developmental Disabilities Administration provides a wide range of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families and caregivers to thrive in the community, at work, and at home. Access these services: bit.ly/45QleZU.
- .@govwesmoore.bsky.social announced $164 million in hospital surge funding to help Maryland hospitals manage the high volume of respiratory illnesses. This funding supports access to vital health care. Learn more: bit.ly/4bLhdss.
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- RELEASE: Primary care programs are expanding for approximately 1.2 million Medicare and #MarylandMedicaid enrollees across the state, focusing on preventive care and care coordination to provide quicker access to care and reduce unnecessary hospital visits. Learn more: bit.ly/4pRwWJU.
- Help someone you care about start fresh by supporting them in becoming smoke-free. Free, confidential support to make it a smoke-free year is available 24/7 at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or by texting READY to 34191.
- You’re in charge of your life. Be in charge of your health, too. An advance directive is your health care plan when you can’t speak for yourself, regardless of age. Name a trusted person as your agent. It takes 2 minutes. Learn more: health.maryland.gov/advance-directives.
- Requests for coverage of new treatments, procedures, or medications can now be submitted using Maryland Medicaid's improved request submission form. Learn more and track your request at bit.ly/4qcwuqF.
- This week, we commemorate the life and enduring legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is designated by Congress as a National Day of Service, and is intended to be a day for civic engagement and community improvement. Check out these tips to get involved!
- The RSV immunization for infants has been shown to decrease hospitalization by up to 90%. You can protect your baby in two ways: during pregnancy with a maternal RSV vaccine, or with an RSV immunization after birth. Learn more: health.maryland.gov/rsv.
- Intimate partner stalking happens when a current or former partner engages in stalking behavior. When a firearm is involved, the risk of intimate partner homicide increases. Help is available through domestic violence programs. Find support near you: TheHotline.org.
- The Developmental Disabilities Administration has four regional offices throughout Maryland, serving as a resource to individuals receiving or applying for services. Learn about how our dedicated teams can help you and your loved ones: bit.ly/4l1oVQF.
- During extreme cold, check on older family members and neighbors, as they are more susceptible to cold-related illness. If someone doesn’t have sufficient heat, contact your local health department to find a nearby warming center. Get info: bit.ly/3uRbNZC.
- Recovery is more than sobriety. It’s rebuilding your future. While seeking treatment, education and job-support services can help you gain meaning and independence. Learn more: Findtreatment.gov.
- Maintaining a consistent schedule or routine during challenging or stressful times is crucial. This includes having set times to go to bed and wake up, and planning your activities for the day. For tips and resources to support your mental health, visit health.maryland.gov/selfcare.
- Living at home with the best support can make all the difference. Maryland Medicaid’s Community Options Waiver supports adults who need a nursing level of care but want to live at home or in the community. Learn more about these services: bit.ly/4qdR2PN.
- The new year is a great time to commit to quitting.
- Your goals matter. People applying for or receiving the Developmental Disabilities Administration’s Community Pathways waiver program use person-centered planning to guide the services that best meet their needs. Learn more: bit.ly/3HtjJXv.
- Celebrate Family Fit Lifestyle Month by making healthy choices with the ones you love. Follow tips that lead to better health and help prevent chronic diseases for you and your family. Learn more: health.maryland.gov/healthy-living.
- If you're a caregiver or have older family members who live independently, follow these tips to keep them #WinterReady. Learn more: bit.ly/4joEwdm
- Flu cases are increasing in Maryland. Get your flu shot for added protection. If you’re uninsured, contact your local health department about free vaccines for uninsured or underinsured adults: health.maryland.gov/vaccines.
- RELEASE: The Department has been notified of a confirmed case of measles in a person who traveled through Maryland while infectious late Jan. 7, 2026, through early Jan. 8, 2026. Learn more about locations of potential exposure and what to do if you believe you may have been exposed: bit.ly/4qMSLv2.
- Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. To lower your risk, get vaccinated against HPV, get timely and routine screening, and follow up on abnormal test results. Learn more about cervical cancer prevention and screening services near you: bit.ly/4q0aTlh.
- People with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families have the right to live, learn, work, play, and pursue their dreams. Learn we support individuals and their families: bit.ly/4pfiU5z.
- RELEASE: @govwesmoore.bsky.social announced the Vax Act for Maryland’s 2026 legislative session. This legislation supports Maryland’s commitment to safeguard vaccine access. Learn more: bit.ly/4qcoxlp.
- Asking someone if they’re thinking about suicide does not increase the risk of suicide. It can open a conversation that can save a life. If a loved one is showing warning signs or experiencing a mental health crisis, ask the question and connect to help. Call or text 988.
- Give your loved one a choice about their living situation. The dedicated Medicaid Money Follows the Person program team supports the person on their journey towards community living. Explore housing options and receive expert guidance to make informed decisions. Learn more: health.maryland.gov/mfp.
- Measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious health complications. Recent increases in measles cases in the U.S. and internationally serve as a reminder to ensure your family is protected with the MMR vaccine. Learn more: health.maryland.gov/measles.
- Did you know? Effective treatment of substance use disorder can include medications, counseling and recovery support. This combination is a proven approach to recovery. Learn more about treatment options: bit.ly/497SRYn.
- Electric space heaters can be a great heat source for your home, but can also pose a fire hazard if not used properly. 🔌Never leave a space heater unattended. 🔥Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from anything flammable. Learn more: bit.ly/3WcyAcX.
- STATEMENT: Maryland’s childhood vaccine schedule will continue to follow the guidance of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Read the full statement from Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani: bit.ly/3Nffp0B.
