Public Health Management of Mass Gatherings

Mass gatherings are events attended by a large number of people, over a period of time, in a marginalized space. These conditions cause a strain on the planning and response resources of the host community where such events are being held. “Mass Gathering Medicine and Public Health” is a new field which focuses on the health risks of mass gatherings.  The main aim of this field is to minimize public health risks at mass gathering through proper surveillance, alert, and preparedness and response systems. 

Naturally, public health concerns arise during mass gatherings such as the occurrence of injuries, communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, exhaustion and heat-related illnesses, alongside other public health related issues. Such circumstances impose significant challenges on public health systems. Based on these findings, the need arises for a better understanding of public health threats, strengthening of public health systems, and enabling of evidence-based decision-making. Furthermore, there is a demand to enhance preparedness, optimize surveillance, and develop rapid response capacities during mass gatherings.