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The 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in Paris promise a spectacular display of athleticism, with millions of spectators anticipated to gather for this grand event. To ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all attendees, WHO/Europe, the French Ministry of Health and Prevention, Santé publique France, and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have jointly issued comprehensive public health advice.
Preparation for the Games
A spokesperson from the French Ministry of Health and Prevention emphasized the significance of prioritizing health during the event: “The 2024 Summer Olympics are a wonderful opportunity for people from all over the world to share the values of sports and celebrate together. For the event to be a complete success, we wish people in attendance to prioritize their health. Along with WHO and ECDC, the French Ministry of Health, with the support of Santé publique France, have developed sound public health advice, with a few simple rules to follow in order to stay safe throughout the event. Take care and enjoy the Games!”
The guidelines cover various aspects of health, starting with vaccinations that travelers may need before their journey. They provide essential information on protecting against respiratory diseases, mosquito- and tick-borne illnesses, and other potential health risks.
Coping with the Heat
With high temperatures expected, the advisory includes tips for staying cool, preventing sunstroke, and maintaining hydration. This advice is crucial to avoid heat-related illnesses that can arise during the hot summer days in Paris.
General Health and Safety Tips
The guidelines also address sexual health, the use of alcohol and tobacco, and provide links to useful websites and phone numbers for medical assistance. By following these recommendations, spectators can ensure a safer and healthier experience at the Games.
Event Highlights
The Paris Olympics, running from 26 July to 11 August, will feature around 10,500 athletes representing 206 nations, including the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Refugee Olympic Team. The event is expected to draw approximately 15 million visitors, including 2 million from abroad. Following the Olympics, the Paralympic Games will take place from 28 August to 8 September, with over 4,000 athletes competing in 549 medal events, attracting a record 3.4 million spectators.
Expert Advice
Pamela Rendi-Wagner, Director of ECDC, stressed the importance of being vigilant about potential infectious disease risks: “Being aware and vigilant about potential infectious disease risks can make a great difference in protecting ourselves and others, and to ensure that everyone attending the Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games stays safe and healthy.”
Gundo Weiler, WHO/Europe’s acting Regional Emergency Director, highlighted the event’s dual nature of celebration and health prioritization: “The Olympics and Paralympic Games are time for celebration. They are also a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing our health. As millions of people come together in Paris for the world’s most famous sporting event, it is important to take simple yet powerful measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and protect ourselves from heat and other health risks. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the joint health advice for a secure, enjoyable experience.”
By following the joint health advice, spectators can look forward to a safe and memorable experience at the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics, celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship and global unity.
