The 2026 FIFA World Cup — running June 11 through July 19 across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico — will draw millions of fans to stadiums, fan zones, airports, and public transit. Large, international gatherings like this can raise public health challenges. Below is a concise summary of the main health risks experts are watching and practical steps fans can take to stay safe.
Main health concerns to be aware of
– Respiratory illnesses: Crowds and close contact increase the chance of spreading common respiratory viruses such as influenza and COVID-19. These remain the most likely infectious threats at mass events.
– Vaccine-preventable diseases: Measles has seen recent upticks in the host countries. While the overall risk at the games is considered low, unvaccinated people are at higher risk for exposure and local spread.
– Rare outbreaks: Current international outbreaks, such as Ebola in parts of Africa, are being monitored. Public health experts say the chance of Ebola or other rare diseases spreading at the World Cup is very low, and health systems are prepared to identify and isolate cases if needed.
– Heat-related illness and injuries: Past tournaments show heat exhaustion, dehydration, fainting, falls, and exacerbations of chronic conditions (for example, problems related to diabetes, seizures, or chest pain) are common in outdoor summer events.
– Vector nuisances: Mosquito bites are generally more of a nuisance than a major threat for most travelers to North America, but basic precautions can reduce bites and any associated risk.
What public health agencies are doing
National and international health agencies are preparing for the event. U.S. public health authorities are coordinating across federal, state, and local levels to monitor disease trends, assess importation risks, and maintain 24/7 screening and response at ports of entry. Agencies are also sharing data with host-city health departments and building dashboards and communication systems to speed detection and response to emerging issues. International organizations are working to improve planning for mass gatherings worldwide.
Practical steps fans can take before and during the games
– Update vaccinations: Make sure routine immunizations are current, including MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) and seasonal flu shots. Vaccination is the best protection against vaccine-preventable diseases.
– Monitor travel advisories: Check official travel and health advisories for host cities before you go and during your trip.
– Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, avoid touching your face, and be careful with food and drink from street vendors or unfamiliar sources.
– Protect against heat: Drink plenty of water, wear lightweight breathable clothing and a hat, take breaks in shade or air-conditioned areas, use sunscreen, and avoid excessive alcohol in high heat. Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and seek shade and medical help if needed.
– Use insect repellent if indicated: When mosquitoes are present, use EPA-registered repellents and wear long sleeves/pants at dawn and dusk if you’ll be in mosquito-prone areas.
– Prepare for crowd-related risks: Wear comfortable, supportive shoes to reduce falls; keep medications (including those for chronic conditions) on you; and identify first-aid points and exits at venues.
– Consider masks if you’re high-risk: People aged 65 and older, those who are immunocompromised, pregnant people, or anyone with serious chronic conditions may want to wear a well-fitted mask in very crowded settings.
– Know how to monitor for symptoms: After events, watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual symptoms. If you become ill, contact a healthcare provider promptly and tell them about your recent travel or event attendance.
If you get sick at the event or after returning home
Seek medical attention if you have severe symptoms or conditions that could indicate a serious infection or heat-related emergency. Health systems in host countries are prepared to diagnose and treat infectious diseases and to use infection-control measures when indicated. Report suspected cases of measles or other concerning infections to local health authorities so they can respond quickly.
Bottom line
The World Cup will be an exciting, high-energy event. While large international gatherings always carry some public health risk, the most likely problems are familiar: respiratory illnesses, heat-related conditions, and routine injuries. Advance preparation, up-to-date vaccinations, sensible hygiene, heat precautions, and attention to symptoms after travel will go a long way toward keeping you and your travel companions safe and healthy while you enjoy the tournament.
