Italy’s Winter Olympics 2026: A Health and Safety Update for Travelers
With the Winter Olympics 2026 underway in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, anticipation is high. Over two million spectators are expected, and as of February 16, 2026, health officials report no significant public health emergencies linked to the Games.
Communicable Disease Risk Remains Low
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has assessed the risk of contracting communicable diseases during the Olympics and Paralympics as low, provided standard preventative measures are followed. This assessment is detailed in the ECDC’s Communicable Disease Threats Report for week #7 of 2026. Currently, Notice no mandatory vaccination requirements for attendees.
However, travelers should not assume a risk-free environment. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends staying up-to-date on routine and travel vaccinations before visiting Italy. This includes considering vaccinations for measles, as transmission has been reported globally, including within Europe.
Beyond Infectious Diseases: Safety and Consular Support
While the immediate risk of widespread disease outbreaks appears minimal, travelers should be aware of other potential concerns. The U.S. State Department currently has a Level 2 Travel Advisory in place for Italy, citing potential civil unrest.
U.S. Citizens traveling to Italy should also be aware that consular services at U.S. Embassy locations in Milan, Rome, Florence, and Naples are currently operating with reduced availability. However, the Consular Agency in Venice remains available to provide emergency American Citizen Services.
Staying Informed and Connected
The U.S. Government strongly encourages all travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service provides digital updates and alerts from U.S. Embassies and consulates, ensuring you receive critical information during your trip.
Enrollment in STEP also allows the U.S. Embassy to contact you in case of an emergency, whether it’s a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family crisis back home.
Future Trends in Event Health Security
The proactive approach taken by health authorities for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Games highlights a growing trend in event health security. Large-scale events are increasingly viewed as potential amplification sites for infectious diseases, necessitating robust surveillance and preventative measures.
We can expect to see more sophisticated risk assessments, incorporating real-time data on disease prevalence and traveler movements. Digital health technologies, such as mobile apps for symptom tracking and contact tracing, may grow more commonplace at future events.
the emphasis on individual responsibility – staying up-to-date on vaccinations and practicing good hygiene – is likely to continue. Travelers are increasingly expected to be active participants in their own health security.
FAQ
Q: Are there any required vaccinations to attend the Winter Olympics?
A: No, there are currently no mandatory vaccination requirements to attend the Games.
Q: What level of travel advisory is in place for Italy?
A: The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory for Italy due to potential civil unrest.
Q: What is the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)?
A: STEP is a free service offered by the U.S. Government that allows U.S. Citizens traveling abroad to receive alerts and updates from U.S. Embassies and consulates.
Q: Where can I find more information about health risks in Italy?
A: You can find more information from the U.S. CDC (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/italy) and the ECDC (https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en).
Did you grasp? The ECDC and WHO collaborated with Italian health authorities to confirm a negligible risk of Chikungunya and Dengue transmission during the Games due to low temperatures and inactivity of disease vectors.
Stay safe and enjoy the Winter Olympics! Share this article with fellow travelers to help them prepare for a healthy and memorable trip. For more travel health advice, explore our other articles on international travel safety.
