How to prevent the spread of infectious diseases at events

How to prevent the spread of infectious diseases at events

Large events and mass gatherings pose a serious threat to the spreading of infectious diseases. When people are sharing common spaces and are at a specific location for long periods, containing infections can pose a challenge. Infectious diseases like flu, tuberculosis, common colds spread through the air through coughs and sneezes. New diseases like Corona Virus pose an even more serious threat because vaccines are yet to be developed.

According to Prof. Sang speaking at the KEMRI Conference 2020, "there are always new viruses coming up and therefore, we need to be ready with a way forward and enhance early warning systems as means of state preparedness."

As an event organizer, the best way to prevent the spread of infections is by being informed and taking preventative measures towards action. Here are some tips on how to prevent the spread of infectious diseases at your event:

  1. Avoid crowds in the registration area by using Dijito solutions that are fast in processing attendees.
  2. Encourage attendees to practice good personal hygiene by ensuring that hand sanitizers, soap, disposable face masks and wastebaskets are available. 
  3. Use communication tools like bulk SMS during the event to communicate health information to attendees.
  4. Have paramedics and an ambulance in place in case an attendee falls sick and requires medical attention. Work closely with local health bodies to identify current infectious diseases.
  5. Adopt mobile application for your event to provide easy access to the event floor plan in case of an emergency.
  6. Choose a spacious venue, preferably open-air and outdoor to prevent overcrowding. 
  7. In case of a high alert of an infection consider postponing or cancelling the event. 
  8. Adopt technology solutions that minimize physical human touch. Mobile applications have inbuilt engagement tools that can be used for group discussions, Q&A’s and polling that help minimize contact. 
  9. If speakers are unable to be present at the event due to travel restrictions, they can stay connected with video conferencing tools.
  10. Reach a wider audience through live streaming for attendees that have to stay home because of sickness.