Infectious Diseases and Mass Gatherings

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Mass gatherings (MGs) involve high population density, increasing infectious disease transmission risks.
• International MGs, like the Hajj, present unique public health challenges due to diverse attendee origins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review infectious diseases associated with international mass gatherings over the past five years.
• To identify common pathogens and disease patterns in MGs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of infectious disease findings related to international mass gatherings.
• Synthesis of data on pathogen prevalence, outbreaks, and preventive measures.

Main Results:

• Respiratory tract infections are prevalent at the Hajj (50-93%), with human rhinovirus, coronaviruses, and influenza A as common viruses.
• Bacterial pathogens like *Haemophilus influenzae*, *Staphylococcus aureus*, and *Streptococcus pneumoniae* are predominant in Hajj pilgrims.
• Diarrheal diseases at the Hajj range from 1.1-23.3%, with *Salmonella* spp. and *E. coli* identified, alongside antimicrobial-resistant bacteria.
• Other MGs reported fewer outbreaks, but measles and influenza outbreaks were noted.
• Gastrointestinal infections were also recorded at various MGs.

Conclusions:

• Individual preventive measures such as vaccination, mask use, and hand hygiene are suggested for MGs.
• The effectiveness of these preventive measures in the context of mass gatherings requires further investigation.
• Understanding pathogen transmission dynamics is crucial for mitigating disease spread at MGs.