WHO Policy Brief: Gatherings in the context of COVID-19, 19 January 2023

Overview

Gatherings are events characterized by the concentration of people at a specific location for a specific purpose over a set period of time and can be associated with risk of amplification of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. 

The aim of this policy brief is to present WHO’s position on, and guidance in relation to, holding gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic. The information is derived from WHO publications and on a review of evidence extracted from the scientific literature.

It is vital for gatherings to be well managed, regardless of their size, type and level of associated risk. Nonetheless, even when precautionary measures are properly applied, zero risk does not exist. The application of additional precautionary measures, postponing or cancelling events of any size should always be considered following a risk assessment whose conclusions indicate that associated risks outweigh the benefits of an event. The principles of the risk-based approach are valid for gatherings of all sizes, types and characteristics and for all organizers and participants.