Prevention and management of heat-related illness at mass gatherings: systematic reviews

Overview

Extreme heat is an increasingly important threat to health and operational continuity during mass gatherings. Climate change is increasing the frequency, duration and intensity of heat exposure, while high crowd density, prolonged outdoor activity, restricted movement, inadequate access to cooling areas or safe water, and diverse population vulnerabilities can amplify risk in event settings. Consequently, heat-related illness is a core public health and service-delivery concern that can affect attendees, volunteers and workers and challenge local health systems. This report synthesizes evidence from three systematic reviews examining structural, technological and behavioural approaches to preventing heat-related illness and minimizing heat strain during mass gatherings.