Experts Warn of Potential Disease Spread at 2026 FIFA World Cup

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off, health experts are raising concerns about the potential spread of infectious diseases among the large crowds expected at the event. Measles has been identified as a top concern due to its high contagiousness and potential for rapid spread in crowded venues ^[1][2].

In addition to measles, public health experts anticipate the circulation of common illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, norovirus, chlamydia, and gonorrhea during the mass gatherings associated with the World Cup ^[1][2]. Despite these concerns, the risk of Ebola spreading at the event is considered very low by experts ^[1][2].

Vector-borne diseases, including dengue and chikungunya, are also being monitored, particularly in host cities where mosquito vectors are present ^[1][2]. Health officials plan to use wastewater surveillance, hospital data, and other early-warning systems to monitor disease trends throughout the tournament ^[3].

A modeling study has estimated that dengue poses the highest importation risk to most U.S. host cities, followed by influenza. In Atlanta, however, malaria risk may exceed that of dengue ^[4]. A separate risk assessment found that for 63 of 77 evaluated pathogens, the increased risk from the World Cup is near zero. The remaining priority pathogens fall into categories such as mosquito-borne pathogens, seasonal respiratory viruses, chronic infections, pathogens with increased transmission at mass gatherings, and high-consequence threats ^[5].

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has issued public health recommendations for travelers and attendees, warning that infectious diseases, heat-related illnesses, and injuries pose increased risks in crowded settings ^[6].

What Is Known

Experts have identified measles as a significant concern due to its potential for rapid spread in crowded environments ^[1][2]. Common illnesses such as influenza and COVID-19 are expected to circulate, and vector-borne diseases are being closely monitored ^[1][2]. Health officials have implemented surveillance systems to track potential outbreaks ^[3].

What Remains Unclear

While the risk of Ebola is considered low, the potential impact of other diseases, such as dengue and malaria, remains uncertain. The effectiveness of the monitoring systems in preventing widespread outbreaks will be closely observed ^[4][5].