World Cup 2026 travel health risks: vaccines, crowds, and key safety advice for travellers

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued new public health recommendations for travellers and attendees of mass gatherings ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 across Canada, Mexico, and the US, targeting millions expected at stadiums, fan zones, transport hubs, hospitality venues, and related travel corridors.

The ‘With Health, We All Win’ campaign highlights vaccination, especially against measles amid rising cases in the Americas, and advises checking influenza, Covid-19, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), and hepatitis A and B protection, as well as destination-specific requirements.

“The celebration happens both inside and outside the stadiums, but to fully enjoy it, it’s important to take care of yourself and stay informed,” PAHO said as part of the campaign.

PAHO stresses pre-trip preparation: medical kits, sufficient medication, confirmed insurance coverage, and carrying key documents such as vaccination records to reduce disruption and claims complexity during peak travel periods, particularly for high-volume cross-border itineraries.

Mass gatherings increase risks of respiratory infection, foodborne illness, heat stress, and injury. Recommended measures include handwashing, safe food and water, ventilation awareness, hydration, heat avoidance, and crowd safety vigilance.

Guidance also covers mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika and chikungunya in Mexico, plus sexual health protection and limiting alcohol due to dehydration and impaired judgement.

Post-travel monitoring is advised as symptoms may appear days later. Early medical care and reporting recent travel and event attendance support diagnosis and limit transmission.