Winter Olympics and Paralympics 2026: Health Protection Guidance

Summary

ECDC has published comprehensive health protection guidance for attendees of the 2026 Winter Olympics (6-22 February) and Paralympics (6-15 March) in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. The guidance covers vaccination requirements, respiratory infection prevention, food safety, sexually transmitted infection risks, and medical access for international visitors.

Key Health Recommendations

Vaccination Requirements

Measles: MMR vaccination emphasized due to global measles transmission and outbreaks
Timing: Full immunization protection needed at least two weeks before departure
Status verification: All attendees should check their immunization status before traveling

Respiratory Infection Prevention

Winter mass gatherings pose increased risks for respiratory infections, particularly for vulnerable populations:

Recommended vaccinations:

Seasonal influenza vaccine
COVID-19 vaccine
RSV vaccine (for eligible groups)

Protective measures:

Maintain distance from symptomatic individuals
Frequent handwashing
Avoid touching face
Cover nose and mouth when coughing/sneezing
Wear masks in crowded settings if symptomatic

Food and Water Safety

Italian tap water is safe for consumption
Cook food thoroughly
Wash fresh produce
Discard perishable food left at room temperature over 2 hours

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Common STIs in Europe:

Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Syphilis
HIV
Hepatitis
Mpox

Protection measures:

Use condoms
Get tested after unprotected sexual encounters

Medical Access

EU citizens can use European Health Insurance Card for necessary medical care
Lombardy region provides dedicated emergency service information online

Public Health Significance

This guidance reflects ECDC’s proactive approach to mass gathering events, addressing multiple health risks simultaneously. The emphasis on measles vaccination aligns with ongoing global measles outbreaks. The comprehensive nature of the guidance (respiratory infections, STIs, food safety) demonstrates understanding of diverse health risks at international sporting events.

Reference

ECDC News, Published: 5 February 2026