Hospitals prepared and symptom screening at airports: emergency care for FIFA World Cup 2026
Mexico City's Health Secretariat is implementing an epidemiological surveillance operation for the FIFA World Cup 2026, including airport screenings and preparedness in hospitals.
The Health Secretariat of Mexico City is preparing an extensive epidemiological surveillance operation for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. This initiative includes establishing health protocols at airports, such as symptom screening for arriving travelers, particularly for those who might present with diseases like measles. Nadine Gasman Zylbermann, the capital's health secretary, emphasized the importance of enhancing the immunity of local residents to prevent outbreaks during the event.
One of the primary components of this operation will be the active monitoring of individuals at airport terminals. Health personnel will be deployed to identify passengers who may exhibit symptoms of infectious diseases, contributing to a broader epidemiological vigilance plan during the World Cup. This strategy aims not only to safeguard the health of visitors but also to enhance the protection of residents in Mexico City against potential outbreaks brought in by international travelers.
The coordinated effort reflects a proactive approach by the Mexican health authorities to ensure a safe environment during the influx of visitors for the World Cup. By preparing hospitals and establishing systematic health checks at points of entry, the initiative seeks to manage public health effectively and mitigate risks associated with large-scale international events, which often pose unique challenges to health systems.