As the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws near, stadiums across the United States, Mexico and Canada are bracing for a surge of visitors, with estimates suggesting between five and ten million fans will flock to matches.
The massive influx raises concerns that respiratory infections common in the southern hemisphere could spill over into the northern hemisphere, prompting health officials to heighten surveillance.
Preventive measures on the ground
Mary Hill, head of the epidemiology bureau at the Salt Lake County Health Department, urges travelers to wash their hands frequently, avoid touching their faces and to keep surfaces clean as simple yet effective barriers against disease transmission.
Health departments in the three host nations have mobilised teams to monitor arrivals, conduct screenings and provide guidance on vaccinations for those preparing for international travel.
While infectious diseases are an expected part of large gatherings, officials stress that basic hygiene and prompt medical attention can keep outbreaks at bay, ensuring the tournament remains a celebration rather than a public‑health crisis.