Event organizers and attendees
(Updated 31 March 2021)
Mass gatherings and large events have the potential for serious public health consequences if they are not planned and managed carefully. There is ample evidence that mass gatherings can amplify the spread of infectious diseases, with the transmission of respiratory infections, including influenza, has been frequently associated with mass gatherings. During the current COVID-19 pandemic, with widespread human-to-human transmission occurring in multiple countries, the cancellation or postponement of large events and mass gatherings is a means to help control disease spread between people. WHO is providing advice to countries on recommendations for large event organizers and the measures they should take to protect the health and well-being of attendees and the wider population.
Guidance
Key planning recommendations for Mass Gatherings in the context of the current COVID-19 outbreak (Interim guidance)
The purpose of this document is to outline key planning considerations for organizers of mass gatherings in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak. It should be read in conjunction with WHO’s Public Health for Mass Gatherings: Key Considerations, which provides general advice on the public health aspects of mass gathering events. It is also adapted from WHO’s interim planning considerations previously released for mass gatherings in the context of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza, and International meetings attended by individuals from Ebola virus disease-affected countries.
Online course for public health preparedness for mass gathering events
This project aims to support host nations in delivering a safe and successful event, as part of WHO’s ongoing support to countries in strengthening the International Health Regulations capacities for prevention, detection and response to the public health events in the context of hosting mass gathering events.
To create a user account, future members need to click on “Register” from the homepage of the Health Security Learning Platform:
2021 springtime religious celebrations
Small public gatherings and COVID-19
Q&A: Small public gatherings and COVID-19
Any decision to hold an event during the COVID-19 pandemic, no matter how large or small, should rely on a risk-based approach. WHO has provided guidance on how such a risk-based approach can be taken. This Q&A is focused on small, non-professional gatherings and events (i.e. birthday parties, children’s football games, family occasions). Precautions to consider include actions to prevent transmission between people, and where to hold the venue and how it can be modified to make a safer environment. Cancelling a planned event is an option that should always be considered, especially in case of non-essential events or when precautions cannot be implemented or adequately communicated.
