EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – MAY 01: A general view of MetLife Stadium ahead of the 2026 World Cup at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to commence on Thursday, June 11, in Mexico City and will conclude on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This soccer spectacle will feature 48 national teams competing in 104 matches across 16 cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, attracting millions of fans from around the world.
For emergency physicians, events like the World Cup pose unique challenges, particularly with concerns about extreme weather and summer heat affecting players and fans alike.
Although most attendees remain healthy, each tournament inevitably results in a number of emergencies. Given its unprecedented scale, this World Cup warrants more attention to health risks than many spectators may realize.
Here are four health tips to ensure fans enjoy the World Cup safely.
1. Be Cautious of Heat Illness, Especially When Consuming Alcohol
Temperatures in Houston, Miami, Mexico City, and Los Angeles during June and July can be extremely high, posing a risk to those standing in crowds for extended periods.
Heat exhaustion results from the body overheating and losing essential fluids and salt through sweat. Symptoms include dizziness, a rapid but weak pulse, and cool, clammy skin. Without treatment, it can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition marked by a core body temperature above 104 degrees F, confusion, and a lack of sweating.
The risk is significantly increased by alcohol, which acts as a vasodilator and diuretic, leading to dehydration and impaired temperature regulation. To mitigate risk, consume a full meal before drinking, alternate alcoholic drinks with water, select lower-alcohol options, and have electrolyte beverages available. These are more effective than plain water for prolonged outdoor exposure. Moreover, according to the EPA, shade can reduce heat by 20 to 45 degrees F.
FIFA faced criticism for initially banning outside water bottles at some venues. Be sure to check the regulations for your specific stadium before attending.
2. Minimize Your Risk of Infectious Disease
The U.S. is facing its largest measles outbreak in decades. Measles is an extremely contagious virus, with an unvaccinated person having about a 90% chance of contracting it after an hour on a plane with an infected person, according to the CDC.
Philadelphia’s Department of Public Health has identified measles as its primary infectious disease concern for the tournament.
Fortunately, two doses of the MMR vaccine offer strong protection. Adults born before 1957 are usually considered immune due to natural exposure. Those born after who haven’t received two MMR doses should consult their doctor before attending.
In addition to measles, the Pan American Health Organization advises fans to be up-to-date on flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, especially those traveling internationally. The 2025–2026 flu season saw a 30-year high in U.S. doctor visits, and COVID-19 continues to result in numerous hospitalizations each year.
There is also an ongoing Ebola outbreak in Central Africa. While the risk to World Cup attendees is low, enhanced screening measures have been implemented in all three host countries.
3. Understand Your Personal Risks When Attending
Certain groups are at higher risk at mass gatherings in summer heat, including:
- Individuals 65 and older
- Those with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, COPD, or kidney disease
- Immunocompromised individuals
- Pregnant fans
For these groups, experts recommend wearing a well-fitted mask in crowded indoor or covered areas. Open-air stadium seating presents lower respiratory risk compared to enclosed fan zones, bars, and public transportation.
Cardiac risk is particularly noteworthy. Research from NEJM has documented spikes in cardiac events during high-stakes matches in countries like Germany and England during major tournaments. The emotional intensity of sports can have significant physiological effects.
Those with known heart issues or risk factors should consult their cardiologist before attending. Upon arrival, locate the AED stations; most large venues are equipped with them.
4. Be Mindful of Physical Hazards in Crowded Stadiums
Sprains, lacerations, fractures, and head injuries are common at major stadium events. The energy during goal celebrations, mass exits, and crowded concourses can lead to injuries. Wear supportive footwear instead of flip-flops and use handrails. Exercise patience when 70,000 people are exiting at once.
International fans unfamiliar with the U.S. healthcare system should dial 911 in emergencies. Emergency departments in all host cities are accessible, regardless of insurance status. Travelers from outside the U.S. should carry travel insurance with medical coverage.
While the World Cup is an extraordinary event, emergency physicians also recognize the unforeseen challenges it brings.
A final note: The public health infrastructure supporting this year’s event is thinner than for past mass gatherings, due to federal workforce reductions at the CDC and coordination challenges. This makes personal preparation even more crucial.
Keep these health tips in mind and enjoy the tournament. If you witness someone in distress, be the one to seek help.
