Bolstering Mass Casualty Preparedness and Response to Nuclear, Radiation, and Explosive Incidents during Mass...

While emergency preparedness preparations are typically focused on the most commonly occurring events such as natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and small-scale human-made disasters, concern for disasters involving mass gatherings is growing, particularly with previously less common nuclear, radiological, and explosive incidents. An example is provided of potentially useful preparedness for these events with the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026^TM, expected to be one of the largest sporting events in USA history. Trainings and protocols are reviewed, with a specific suggestion of a scorecard for prioritizing preparedness. Particular focus is also given to integrated surge pathways in this response. By combining evidence-based risk communication, burn surge planning, and the scorecard approach to prioritize and coordinate actions across host cities, organizers can reduce preventable morbidity and mortality.