Introduction: Mass gatherings pose significant challenges in terms of public safety and health risks, requiring targeted and strategic risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) approaches. To effectively address these challenges, the World Health Organization (WHO) has developed an RCCE Readiness and Response Toolkit. This toolkit supports RCCE practitioners, decision-makers, and partners at all levels in planning and implementing readiness and response activities for health emergencies related to MG events. It complements existing frameworks and operational packages designed to assist event planners and stakeholders in organizing safe MG events and managing related health emergencies, and is based on global best practices. Methods: This toolkit was developed through an iterative and consultative process that included an extensive literature review, expert consultations, pilot testing during outbreak responses, and peer reviews. It includes practical tools for risk assessment, community data collection, countering misinformation, and developing evidence-based RCCE strategies for emergency preparedness and response at mass gatherings. Results: The toolkit equips MG organizers, stakeholders, and RCCE practitioners with the necessary tools and frameworks to effectively communicate risks and respond to health emergencies associated with MG events. By facilitating evidence-based RCCE strategies tailored to community needs, the toolkit supports more accountable health interventions, enhancing public safety and reducing morbidity and mortality at MG events Conclusion: RCCE is essential for fostering collaboration and coordination, ensuring public trust and readiness, and suggesting effective community-led solutions to bolster health emergency response management before, during, and after a mass gathering. This publication provides a step-by-step guide on developing RCCE strategies tailored to specific settings, leveraging the latest evidence and community-centered approaches to protect and save lives.
Glaria et al. (Sun,) studied this question.