World Health Organisation publishes new document with updated advice on mass gatherings

The 'Key planning recommendations for mass gatherings in the context of COVID-19' document was published last Friday (29 May), and is the first updated advice on mass gatherings to be provided since the WHO's initial advice on 19 March.

The aim of the document is to "provide guidance to host governments, health authorities and national or international organisers of mass gatherings on containing risks of COVID-19 transmission associated with mass gathering events."

WHO write that mass gatherings "have important implications on the psychological well-being of large number of individuals", and "can play an important role in promoting healthy behaviours (e.g. sports), provide employment for a great number of people, and could leave a legacy of improved assets or capacities developed as a result of hosting a mass gathering event."

"Since mass gatherings have substantial political, cultural, social, and economic implications," the document reads, "authorities should assess the importance and necessity of an event and consider the option that it may take place, provided all associated public health risks are adequately addressed and mitigated."

The document also lists a number of "modifications" that organisers can put to use when planning a mass gathering, including hosting an event outdoors instead of indoors and/or online, changing the capacity of the venue to suit social distancing measures, ensuring handwashing facilities are available, thorough cleaning and disinfection of the venue, regulating the flow of people entering/leaving, advising attendees to observe social distancing, and advising high-risk people and those that have had symptoms/been around someone with COVID-19 to not attend.

WHO conclude that "events associated with a low or very low risk of COVID-19 transmission and low strain on the health system may be considered sufficiently safe to proceed. Events with a moderate, high, or very high level of risk might not be sufficiently safe to proceed and would require a more thorough application of prevention and control measures. If the risk of spreading COVID-19 remains significant after application of all control measures, postponing or cancelling the planned event should be considered."