Paris Olympic Games 2024: WHO's Urgent Health Advisory For Spectators Travelling To France

The advisory covers a range of topics, from what kind of vaccines travellers may need before they reach Paris, to how they can protect themselves against respiratory diseases, or even mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue.

Paris Olympic Games 2024: Sports fans from around the world are eagerly waiting for the Paris Olympic Games to commence, with many of them keen on watching the games in person. The 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games begin in France on July 26, and end on August 11, 2024. They will be followed by the Paralympic Games that start on August 28 and go on till September 8, 2024. And while it is an exciting time, one has to exercise caution if they are interested in being physically present to watch and cheer for their favourite athletes. If you are travelling to France, follow a health advisory issued by the French Ministry of Health and Prevention, WHO Europe, Sant publique France, and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

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"The 2024 Summer Olympics, the largest sporting celebration, are a wonderful opportunity for people from all over the world to share the values of sports and to celebrate together. For the event to be a complete success, we wish people in attendance to prioritise their health. Along with WHO and ECDC, the French Ministry of Health, with the support of Sant 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," a spokesperson for the French Ministry of Health and Prevention said.

The health advisory covers a range of topics, from what kind of vaccines travellers may need before they reach Paris, to how they can protect themselves against respiratory diseases, or mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue.

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Precautions To Take At Paris Olympics 2024

According to the advisory, here are some important points:

1. Vaccination program: Before attending the event, check your vaccination status and consult your doctor on whether you are due for any other vaccinations in line with your country's national immunisation schedule.
2. Measles: Since cases of measles are on the rise everywhere, including Europe, anyone who is at risk -- if they have not been fully vaccinated -- or have not had measles in the past, must check their measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination status. And if they are not vaccinated, they must initiate vaccination at least 2 weeks before travelling.
3. Respiratory infections: In a post-Covid world, respiratory infections are common. Keep in mind that a mass gathering event can increase your chances of being exposed to respiratory diseases like Covid-19, whooping cough, etc. In case of symptoms like cough, fever, and/or sore throat, stay at home or in your hotel room. Consider wearing a mask when you step outside.
4. Sun and heat: To protect yourself from heatwaves, spend as much time as possible -- or at least 2-3 hours of the day -- in a cool place, especially during the hottest time of the day. Stay hydrated and avoid direct exposure to the sun.
5. Food and water safety: Tap water in France is safe to drink, so there is no need to buy bottled water. Wash your hands before and after eating. To prevent illnesses transmitted through food eat food that is thoroughly cooked; always wash fruits and vegetables before consumption.
6. Mosquito-borne diseases: Diseases transmitted by mosquitoes include dengue, chikungunya, Zika, West Nile virus infection, and others. Tiger mosquitoes are widely present in France. Wear light, breathable clothes that cover the body. Use mosquito repellents. Sleep in an air-conditioned room or use fans and mosquito nets.