Major events - Giro d'Italia 2014

Major events can attract thousands of visitors from all over the world. When many people are gathered together for such events, there can be an increased risk to public health, so the Public Health Agency (PHA) plays a key role in helping to reduce this risk.

The PHA provides advice to health professionals and members of the public on how to reduce risks to public health at major events, and on the management of any issues which may develop. It also works to protect the population from infection and environmental hazards which could result from major events through a range of functions including surveillance and monitoring, operational support and advice, education, training and research.

In 2014 one of the world's most prestigious sporting events the Giro d'Italia is coming to Northern Ireland from 9 - 11 May 2014, and the PHA has been working with partner agencies regionally and on the ground to prepare for this event.

The WHO defines mass gatherings as “events attended by a sufficient number of people to strain the planning and response resources of a community, state or nation.” The public health response to mass gatherings is similar to that for emergencies or incidents in which existing infrastructure, such as healthcare or emergency services, is inadequate for a surge in demand, so significant planning and coordination is involved.

The PHA’s advice for the public during a major event, including links to key resources and guidance, can be found below:

• Carbon monoxide advice for campers
• Hand hygiene – reducing the spread of infection
• Food safety
• Water safety
• Infection prevention & control advice for hotels

For further health information for participants and visitors click here.