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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response

Thousands of pre-planned mass gatherings and special events (e.g., sporting events, festivals, conventions, visits by dignitaries) occur each year across the nation. Unfortunately, in today’s environment, special events attended by large numbers of people may be considered as terrorist targets due to large concentrations of crowds, the symbolic nature of the event, high-profile attendees, and increased media attention. Severe weather events such as heat and storms can also quickly turn a mass gathering into a mass casualty event. Mass gatherings also pose a risk for infectious disease outbreaks or may be held during an outbreak requiring adaptations or restrictions. Surging crowds (which may be induced by panic) can cause trampling or suffocation events. It is for these reasons that local, state, and federal authorities should anticipate the public health and medical issues presented by mass gatherings and prepare adequately for a range of response operations.

The speakers in this webinar will highlight their experiences preparing for the 2026 World Cup games and related events being planned across the U.S. Topics will include preparing for infectious disease incidents; how healthcare coalitions and Medical Reserve Corps units can support regional planning and healthcare in a variety of settings; and how ASPR is preparing to provide support from a federal perspective. Speakers include the following:

Administrative Remarks: Rachel Lehman, Director (Actin), ASPR TRACIE and CAPT Samantha Spindel, Ph.D., Director (Acting), Office of Medical Reserve Corps

ASPR Opening Remarks: CDR Shelsy Cannon, MS, BSN, RN, US Public Health Service, ASPR Regional Emergency Coordinator, Region 3

Moderator: John Hick, MD, Hennepin Healthcare and ASPR TRACIE Senior Editor

Speakers:

• Steven Hoeger, Director, Corporate Emergency Management, University Health (Kansas) 
• Alexander Isakov, MD, MPH, Executive Director, Health Security, Emory University, NETEC EMS Workgroup Co-Lead 
• Brooke Lawrence, Executive Director, Rhode Island Medical Reserve Corps

Space is limited--register today!