Development of an Enhanced Surveillance and Epidemiology Program to Support the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games in England: Outcomes and Lessons Learned

Introduction: The 2022 Commonwealth Games (B2022) was hosted by Birmingham, United Kingdom (UK) from July, 28 to August 8, 2022. As a major global sporting event and mass gathering, B2022 included over 4,500 athletes (from 72 countries territories) attracted 1.5 million spectators. Robust public health surveillance support for protection incidents required the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) protect of both those directly involved in B2022, local population. Method: UKHSA activities West Midlands region were enhanced, utilizing lessons learned response London 2012 Olympic Paralympic 2021 G7 Summit (hosted England). Enhancements included: adaptation existing development new methods identification increased activity range pathogens/diseases/conditions particular concern gathering; standardized daily situation reporting inform action organizing committee. Three streams routine data assessed each day: protection/clinical management system, statutory laboratory reports infection, syndromic surveillance. Bespoke also implemented using sources. Results: Enhanced successfully met need next-day during B2022. No outbreaks or significance identified. Syndromic reported an impact on services due periods extremely hot weather before following competition period, although these impacts not unique Birmingham area. Conclusion: Surveillance epidemiology provided reassurance there no incidents/outbreaks Games. enhancements made will future be employed similar gathering events.