The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) has launched the World Cup 2026 Health Hub, a comprehensive online resource aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of the estimated 1.2 million visitors and residents during the upcoming FIFA World Cup™. The hub provides critical public health information as the state prepares to host eight matches, including the Final, at New York New Jersey (MetLife) Stadium.
Available at nj.gov/health/world-cup, the hub offers actionable guidance on a wide array of health topics, including heat and sun safety, air quality, tick and mosquito protection, food safety, and drug safety. It also assists global visitors in navigating the U.S. healthcare system and provides resources for New Jersey's health care and public health professionals.
Governor Mikie Sherrill emphasized the state's commitment, saying, "Our top priority is ensuring a safe, successful, and memorable World Cup experience for both visitors and New Jersey residents." She added that state agencies have spent years planning and coordinating for the tournament. Dr. Raynard E. Washington, New Jersey's Health Commissioner, echoed this, stating, "NJDOH and its partners have rigorously planned and prepared for every potential public health challenge. This hub ensures that people have the information they need, when they need it."
The World Cup 2026 Health Hub features dedicated pages on medical care guidance, emergency contacts, and a professional resource section with surveillance dashboards and training materials. A social media toolkit is also available for partner organizations to share information in English and Spanish.
Attendees are encouraged to review the hub before match day, download the Everbridge public safety app for real-time updates, and save key emergency numbers like 911, 988 for mental health crises, and 211 for community services. Public health preparations, ongoing since early 2025, involve close coordination with the New Jersey State Police and Office of Emergency Management to manage potential risks such as extreme heat, disease outbreaks, and mass casualty incidents, ensuring a unified response across all levels.