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Mass gatherings

Name of documentReference to older peopleLast updated
Key planning recommendations for mass gatherings in the context of the current COVID-19 outbreakRisk assessment
- Specific features of the event that should be considered include: age of participants; because elderly people who have co-morbid conditions appear to be more seriously affected, mass gatherings composed principally of this cohort may be associated with increased transmission;
29 May 2020
Considerations for mass gatherings in the context of COVID-19: annex: considerations in adjusting public health and social measures in the context of COVID-19Guiding principles when considering the adjusting of public health and social measures
- Protection of vulnerable populations should be central in the decision to maintain or lift a measure.
Specific measures for workplaces and jobs at high risk
- Avoid assigning tasks with high risk to workers who have pre-existing medical conditions, are pregnant, or older than 60 years of age
School setting and ability to maintain COVID-19 prevention and control measures
- When schools are fully or partially open, COVID-19 prevention and control strategies2 should be maintained. Risk assessment could be guided by the considerations below, while recommended actions and requirements are outlined in the following section:
• Are policies and procedures in place for the safety of all school personnel, including considerations to protect high-risk individuals (older persons, persons with underlying medical conditions)?
• Advise against crowding during school pick-up or day care, and if possible avoid pick up by older family or community members (e.g. grandparents)
14 May 2020
Safe Ramadan practices in the context of the COVID-19: interim guidanceAdvice to high-risk groups
- Urge older people and anyone with pre-existing medical conditions (such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer) not to attend gatherings, as they are considered vulnerable to severe disease and death from COVID-19.
Promoting mental and psychosocial health
- Ensuring that family, friends, and elders are still engaged in light of physical distancing needs to be considered; encouraging alternate and digital platforms for interaction is paramount.
15 Apr 2020
Considerations for sports federations/sports event organizers when planning mass gatherings in the context of COVID-19: interim guidanceDemographics
- Pre-travel and pre-event health checks are highly encouraged/mandatory to ensure exclusion of those with potential additional risks (comorbidities, medications, allergies) Spectators can include vulnerable groups so consider advising some at-risk groups not to attend
14 Apr 2020
Decision tree for risk assessment for mass gatheringNo specific reference to older people8 Apr 2020
Decision tree for risk assessment tool for Religious Leaders and Faith-based Communities in the context of COVID-19No specific reference to older people7 Apr 2020
Practical considerations and recommendations for religious leaders and faith-based communities in the context of COVID-19- Religious leaders are a critical link in the safety net for vulnerable people within their faith community and wider communities.
Safe burial practices
- As modifications to burial and funeral rites are adopted, particular attention should be paid to protect children and older adults in attendance
Keeping the community connected
- Religious leaders and faith-based organizations can strengthen their communities and combat self-isolation through regularly checking in on individual members, preferably via phone. This is particularly important to account for individuals who may be living alone, who are elderly, who have disabilities or are otherwise vulnerable
- Faith communities can identify ways that their members can help others, depending upon individual risk levels (checking on the elderly, people with disabilities, and vulnerable neighbors by phone and offering to deliver groceries, etc.).
Responding to domestic violence
- Existing vulnerabilities associated with age, religion, migration status, sexuality and ethnicity may be exacerbated. Religious leaders can actively speak out against violence and can provide support or encourage victims to seek help
Faith leaders’ role
- Stay informed about risk; older people and people with underlying medical conditions are more at risk of severe illness.
- By drawing on language within their own faith tradition, religious leaders can promote positive messages that affirm the dignity of all people, the need to protect and care of the vulnerable, and inspire hope and resilience in those affected by, or vulnerable to, COVID-19
7 Apr 2020
How to use WHO risk assessment and mitigation checklist for Mass Gatherings in the context of COVID-19Information to collect about the meeting
- Estimated percentage of participants who may be considered at risk (age > 65, pre-existing conditions, health care workers, or other responders).
COVID-19 Assessment tool
- Will the event include a significant number of participants at higher risk of severe disease (e.g. people > 65 years of age, people with underlying health conditions)?
Handbook for the Management of Public Health Events in Air TransportNo specific reference to older people
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