GENEVA / RankWire.AI / – A recent review of studies published from 1980 through 2025 highlights nearly 500,000 medical encounters at mass gatherings, with over 22,000 cases involving heat-related illnesses. In response, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued new recommendations aimed at mitigating heat-related health risks during major events worldwide. These guidelines are tailored for large sporting, religious, and cultural gatherings and focus on protecting spectators, attendees, volunteers, and workers exposed to extended periods of high temperatures.
The review indicates that well-organized on-site medical services can manage most heat-related cases without necessitating hospital transfers. When event organizers establish comprehensive medical systems on-site, over 90% of affected individuals can be treated directly at the venue. This strategy helps alleviate pressure on local hospitals and ambulance services. The new guidance forms part of an integrated approach for governments, organizers, and health authorities, combining research insights with practical tools to evaluate and manage heat risks before and during major events.
Since the 1990s, heat-related fatalities have risen by approximately 63%, according to the WHO guidance. Between 2012 and 2021, an average of 546,000 deaths annually have been attributed to heat. Crowds gathered outdoors for long durations increase exposure, especially in high temperatures. Additional factors such as limited access to water, restricted movement, and travel-related stress can amplify these risks. The demand for health services during large-scale events can further complicate medical responses.
Integrating heat preparedness into event management
The new guidance emphasizes the importance of providing accessible drinking water, sufficient sanitation facilities, and cooling infrastructure at event sites. It recommends adjusting schedules, improving crowd control, and implementing protective measures for event staff. Organizers are encouraged to incorporate public messaging, real-time health monitoring, and ready medical services into their planning. WHO stresses that heat protection should be a comprehensive effort covering the entire event, rather than relying mainly on individual actions. Factors such as venue design, transportation, security, and sanitation can significantly influence access to cooling and emergency care.
The comprehensive package features systematic reviews, an implementation manual, and a specialized heat-risk assessment tool. It also offers resources for crafting evidence-based public messages during extreme heat periods. The assessment tool enables structured, repeatable evaluations before and during events. The overall framework addresses preparation, impact mitigation, and recovery, allowing organizers to integrate these measures with existing emergency protocols, occupational safety standards, and national heat-health strategies.
Supporting evidence underscores the need for early heat precautions
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has observed an increase in the frequency and intensity of hot extremes across most land areas since the 1950s. Elevated temperatures can intensify health risks during outdoor or crowded gatherings. Vulnerable populations such as older adults, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those engaged in physical activity face higher dangers. Additionally, workers and volunteers often spend extended periods outdoors providing security, transportation, medical support, or logistical assistance.
The WHO guidance views heat management as an integral part of broader public health and emergency preparedness for mass gatherings. It urges authorities and organizers to evaluate conditions continuously throughout the event lifecycle and to synchronize health protection measures with operational planning. The recommendations are applicable to diverse events, including international sports competitions, festivals, and religious ceremonies. The framework emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and on-site care while aligning with existing national heat-health, emergency response, and clinical management systems.