Health Experts Brace for World Cup Disease Risks as 45 New U.S. Measles Cases Emerge
Updated
Updated · Turn to 10 · May 22
Health Experts Brace for World Cup Disease Risks as 45 New U.S. Measles Cases Emerge
5 articles · Updated · Turn to 10 · May 22
Less than three weeks before kickoff, U.S. public health experts said they are on high alert for infectious-disease outbreaks tied to the World Cup, which is expected to draw 5 million to 7 million fans from more than 100 countries.
Brown epidemiologist William Goedel said the biggest concern is fast-spreading illnesses such as measles, COVID-19, influenza and other respiratory or gastrointestinal infections that can move quickly through large crowds and travel routes.
Forty-five new U.S. measles cases have been reported in 14 states since May 7, and Goedel warned the virus can linger in the air for hours, raising the risk that infected fans could seed outbreaks in multiple host cities.
State labs are preparing to expand diagnostic testing, while health departments in Rhode Island and Massachusetts are also investing in wastewater surveillance to detect threats earlier.
Providence emergency crews say they have trained for more than a year, with recent drills focused on hazardous materials, air monitoring, extrication and EMS response for tournament-related events.
As millions of fans gather, is the biggest health threat a known virus or an unidentified 'Disease X'?
Can real-time data surveillance truly stop an outbreak before it spreads through millions of global fans?
With US measles immunity below target, are new antibody treatments the main defense against a World Cup outbreak?
2026 FIFA World Cup: A Perfect Storm for Measles and Infectious Disease Outbreaks Amid Falling Vaccination Rates
Overview
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to bring millions of visitors from around the world, creating a perfect storm for disease outbreaks. Experts warn that unprecedented international travel, declining vaccination rates, and ongoing outbreaks of infectious diseases will increase the risk of transmission during the event. Public health agencies have already identified a high risk of measles spread, as the constant movement of people between countries means no disease can be considered truly eradicated. This combination of factors makes the World Cup a major public health challenge, requiring strong preparedness and response to protect global communities.