Public Health Management in Mass Gatherings: A Case Study of the Gorgan Event, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Mass gatherings present significant public health challenges, including increased risks of infectious disease transmission, foodborne illnesses, and logistical burdens on host communities. Effective public health interventions are crucial to mitigating these risks and ensuring attendee safety. Objectives: This study evaluates the public health interventions implemented during a large-scale commemoration event in Gorgan, Iran, attended by over 11,000 individuals. It aims to assess the effectiveness of strategies related to food safety, water quality, and overall attendee health, comparing them with global mass gathering health management practices. Methods: A critical analysis of the event’s public health strategies was conducted, with comparisons drawn to internationally recognized mass gatherings such as the Hajj pilgrimage, Kumbh Mela, and the Olympic games. Key areas of intervention included preventive measures, emergency response planning, and logistical coordination. Results: The implemented public health strategies successfully prevented major health crises during the event. However, certain areas, such as predictive modeling, strengthening local public health capacities, and continuous evaluation of public health strategies, were identified as requiring improvement. Conclusions: While the event was managed effectively, future mass gatherings could benefit from the integration of advanced predictive tools, enhanced public health infrastructure, and ongoing assessment of intervention strategies to adapt to evolving trends in mass gathering health management.