Football fans issued urgent health warning as Euro 2024 kicks off

14 June 2024 , 15:06
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From dengue fever to Lyme disease, here is everything you need to be aware of for the tournament
From dengue fever to Lyme disease, here is everything you need to be aware of for the tournament

EURO 2024 kicks off tonight.

Thousands will already be in Germany, tickets in hand, gearing up for the four-week sporting spectacle.

Scotland and Germany supporters gearing up for the first group A match in Munich qhiqqxideiqxuprw
Scotland and Germany supporters gearing up for the first group A match in MunichCredit: AFP
Fans cheer as they wait for kick off at the fan zone near the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin
Fans cheer as they wait for kick off at the fan zone near the Brandenburg Gate in BerlinCredit: AFP

But if you're enjoying any of the 51 games slightly closer to home, you're probably also raring to go.

Beer is likely chilling in the fridge, cupboards are bursting with snacks, and you've got a table booked at your local pub or big screen.

Wherever you're cheering your team on from, German officials, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have issued some serious health warnings to all football fans.

From tongue scraping to saying no, here are 12 health trends to try in 2023From tongue scraping to saying no, here are 12 health trends to try in 2023

Michaela Goecke, from the German Federal Centre for Health Education, said: "This year's UEFA Euro 2024 finals in Germany are a wonderful opportunity for people from all over the world to enjoy football and celebrate together.

"With a few simple rules, people can protect themselves and stay healthy.

"I am pleased that together with WHO and ECDC, we have developed sound public health advice, which is very useful for all sports fans.

"Take care and have fun watching the games."

Vaccination

Are you up to date with all your jabs?

Covid might seem like a thing of the past, but the virus is still circulating and being fully vaccinated will help stop you falling seriously sick - particularly if you're joining 70,000 other fans in a stadium or cramming into a packed pub.

The WHO said: "The emergency phase of Covid-19 is over, but the
virus continues to spread and endanger people’s lives,
particularly those who are older, have chronic diseases, are
immunocompromised or pregnant.

"Vaccination lowers the risk of severe illness and death.

"If you are at risk of severe Covid-19, check your vaccination status and consult with your health-care provider for any needed doses."

Depending on factors like your age, where you live and any underlying health conditions, you may also need jabs against measles, whooping cough, tetanus, diphtheria, polio or other diseases.

I'm a nutritionist - here's the 10 best diet trends to help lose weight in 2023I'm a nutritionist - here's the 10 best diet trends to help lose weight in 2023

Sun exposure and heat

Temperatures are expected to hover around the low 20s for the first few matches in Germany - so not exactly scorching - but this could well rise over the four weeks of the tournament.

It can reach 30C-plus in the country in July, so be prepared.

The WHO said: "High temperatures can be expected this summer in Germany, which can pose serious health risks.

"Extended sun and heat exposure can lead to an increase in severe heat- and ultraviolet (UV) radiation-related illnesses and, in extreme cases, may prove fatal."

Even if you're in Britain, you should take care.

It's easy to forget the dangers of the sun when you're enjoying the games in beer gardens - especially if there's a breeze.

Wherever you are, remember:

"Take these precautions seriously to avoid heat-related health issues," officials said.

"While taking care of yourself, remember to check on your family and friends who are with you."

Water and food safety

Thankfully, tap water in Germany and the UK is safe to drink.

But warm weather can make food unsafe as it causes bacteria to multiply.

The WHO said: "Some foodborne illnesses are mild and resolve
within days, but others can be severe or even fatal."

To prevent illness transmitted through food:

Tick-borne diseases

Ticks are small, spider-like creatures that feed on the blood of birds and mammals, including humans.

They are most active from April to September - so unfortunately, they will be around during the Euros.

Typically, they're found in forests, but they can also be in city parks, gardens and backyards.

"This means anywhere you might be enjoying football matches or surrounding festivities," the WHO said.

Ticks can transmit diseases that can cause "severe chronic conditions or even death". This includes Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE).

To reduce your risk of being bitten by ticks:

Crowded areas could help spread viruses like Covid, officials warn
Crowded areas could help spread viruses like Covid, officials warnCredit: AP
Fans should take care when drinking alcohol and smoking, according to the WHO
Fans should take care when drinking alcohol and smoking, according to the WHOCredit: Getty
A Scotland fan pours beer on his face in the Marienplatz square in Munich
A Scotland fan pours beer on his face in the Marienplatz square in MunichCredit: AP

Viruses

Everyone is at risk of catching Covid, but some people are more likely to become severely ill, officials warn.

This includes older people, pregnant women, immunocompromised people and those living with chronic conditions.

"Mask-wearing and physical distancing are recommended
during periods of high virus circulation for certain settings and
at-risk groups," the WHO said.

Other viruses circulating Europe include measles and whooping cough.

Wash your hands after coughing and sneezing and stay at home if you're unwell.

Mosquitoes carrying dengue, nicknamed 'breakbone fever', have also become "established" in Germany.

Alcohol, smoking and drugs

Alcohol

When your team has won, you're going to want to go out and celebrate - but do so responsibly, officials say.

"While small quantities of alcohol can have a stimulating effect, overall it slows down brain activity," the WHO said.

"At higher doses, it can lead to disturbances in perception and attention; judgement, coordination and speech may become increasingly impaired.

"In hot weather, such as in Germany during the summer, consuming alcohol can lead to increased circulation problems, loss of consciousness and even a life-threatening drop in blood pressure.

"For your health and safety, less alcohol is better, none is best."

Tobacco

The same caution should be applied to smoking, the organisation added.

"Tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke pose serious health risks, including respiratory diseases and increased cancer risk," it said.

"Quitting smoking is the single best way to protect your health and the health of those around you."

Cannabis

Adults in Germany can legally consume cannabis, with a limit up to 25g for personal possession in public.

But it can cause hallucinations, memory impairment and increased risk-taking, the WHO warns.

"Adverse reactions such as panic attacks and rapid heartbeat can occur," it added.

"Long-term use may lead to learning deficits and memory issues, especially in young people under 25, as the brain is particularly vulnerable to tetrahydrocannabinol-related damage."

It is illegal to possess, grow, distribute and sell cannabis in the UK.

STIs

Whether you're in Germany, England or anywhere else, experts say you need to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

The most common across Europe include chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis.

Other infections like HIV, viral hepatitis and mpox can also be
transmitted during sex.

If left untreated, STIs and mpox can lead to serious health issues, and HIV requires lifelong treatment.

The best way to protect yourself is to use condoms and be aware of the symptoms of the conditions, the WHO said.

STIs and mpox may have no symptoms, but common signs include unusual discharge from genitals or the rectum, itching, pain during urination, rectal pain, skin changes including rashes, blister-like lesions, yellowing of the skin, pain during sex or influenza-like symptoms.

If you notice any signs of an STI or mpox, see a healthcare provider, sexual health clinic or community organisation promptly.

"Early detection makes treatment easier and prevents transmission to others."

Gundo Weiler, WHO/Europe’s acting Regional Emergency Director, said: "Attending UEFA matches wherever they are held is an exciting experience, but sports fans should not forget to stay healthy.

"Our joint advice reminds them to hydrate, practise good hygiene, prevent illnesses and be aware of local health advisories.

"Ensure your vaccinations are up to date, including for measles and Covid-19. Enjoy the games safely!"

EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT

Alice Fuller

Germany, Europe, Weather - Latest forecast for the UK, NHS, Mental Health and illness, Medicines vitamins and vaccines, Longtail, Holiday warnings, Health warnings, Food and drink, Euro 2024, Drugs, Diet nutrition and weight loss, Coronavirus, Alcohol

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