CDC Estimates of 2009 H1N1 Cases and Related Hospitalizations and Deaths from April-October 17, 2009, By Age Group
Interim planning considerations for mass gatherings in the context of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza
November 2009
Introduction
Mass gatherings are highly visible events with the potential for serious public health and political consequences if they are not planned and managed carefully. There is ample documentation that mass gatherings can amplify and spread infectious diseases.
Respiratory infections, including influenza, have been frequently associated with mass
gatherings. Such infections can be transmitted during the mass gathering, during transit
to and from the event, and in participants’ home communities upon their return.
Planners of mass gatherings face special challenges during a global influenza
pandemic. The purpose of this document is to outline key planning considerations
for organizers of mass gatherings in the context of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza. It
should be used in conjunction with WHO’s Communicable disease alert and response
for mass gatherings.
This document was prepared during September – October 2009 by WHO staff. It was
reviewed by WHO’s Virtual Interdisciplinary Advisory Group on Mass Gatherings. It is
based on currently available information about pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza. As the
pandemic situation evolves and additional information becomes available, it may be
necessary to revise the document. Review of the document is planned in the first quarter of 2010.
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