WHO Enhances Health Security at Paris Olympics

The World Health Organization (WHO) is actively involved in ensuring health and safety at  the upcoming Paris Olympics, alongside the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the French Government. This effort aligns with WHO's broader mission to promote public health and physical activity.

"WHO has been working with the IOC and the Government of France to make sure these Games are healthy and safe for everyone involved," says Tedros Adhanom, Director General, WHO. This partnership aims to protect athletes and spectators from various health threats and promote physical activity on a global scale.

WHO's health security experts have been working with national and regional authorities to address potential health-related scenarios during the Games. Their efforts include preparations for heatwaves, infectious disease outbreaks, food and water safety hazards, and crowd management. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure the well-being of both participants and visitors.

In collaboration with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and French authorities, WHO has developed public health advice for travelers attending the Olympics. This guidance covers necessary vaccinations, protection against respiratory and vector-borne diseases, and tips for staying cool and hydrated. These measures aim to safeguard the millions of visitors expected in France.

WHO has also participated in IOC Paris 2024 simulation exercises to test public health plans and established Olympics-specific health event-based surveillance. Daily situation reports, created in collaboration with the ECDC, are designed to detect early health events and support timely responses. These reports are shared with the IOC and other partners to ensure coordinated health security measures.

WHO also launched  the "Let’s Move" campaign in partnership with the IOC. This initiative leverages the global platform of the Paris Olympics to encourage physical activity. As part of this campaign, the French Government has implemented a program requiring 30 minutes of daily physical activity for school students. This initiative aims to leave a lasting health legacy from the Olympics.

Through these initiatives, WHO aims to ensure that the Paris Olympics are not only a celebration of sports but also a milestone in global health promotion and security. By working closely with the IOC and the French Government, WHO is striving to create a safe, healthy, and inspiring environment for all involved.