DOHMH Advisory
Due to the expected population surge related to the FIFA World Cup, Fleet Week, and 250th Independence Day celebrations, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) has issued an alert advising providers to anticipate increases in heat-related illness, gastrointestinal illness, travel-associated infections, sexually transmitted infections, and alcohol- and substance-related conditions during June and July. DOHMH will provide ongoing updates, including clinical guidance, webinars, and a dedicated FIFA provider webpage. Health care providers are encouraged to complete a brief survey on communication preferences to support public health preparedness efforts. Providers can register for upcoming DOHMH webinars:
- Travel-associated Infections: Identify, Isolate, Inform—May 28, 2026, at 12:00 noon (featuring Sally Slavinski, DVM, and Mary Foote, MD)
- Reporting Protocols (FIFA World Cup & Reporting 101)—June 12, 2026, at 8:00 a.m.
Ebola Virus Disease
As of May 18, 2026, there are reports of 11 confirmed cases and 336 suspected cases of Ebola virus disease, including 88 deaths, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and two cases, including one death in Uganda. Reported case counts likely underestimate the true burden, with additional cases expected to be identified as surveillance efforts expand. In response, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Homeland Security on May 18 implemented enhanced entry measures including travel screening, public health monitoring, and restrictions under a Title 42 Order—suspending the right to introduce certain persons from countries where a quarantinable communicable disease exists. The order applies to certain non-US persons who have been in the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan within the past 21 days.
Andes Hantavirus Outbreak
The World Health Organization and European Center for Disease Prevention and Control—providing daily updates on its outbreak webpage—reported 11 total cases, including the recently identified case in Canada. CDC has reported that approximately 41 individuals in the United States are currently being monitored for potential exposure related to the MV Hondius cruise ship outbreak. CDC has published Interim Guidance for Public Health Assessment and Management of People with Potential Exposure to Andes Virus. The National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education Center will host a Hantavirus Town Hall: Updates for Frontline Staff today, May 19, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Register here.
Malaria
Malaria is a leading cause of illness worldwide and remains a consideration for travelers from several FIFA-participating countries where transmission is moderate to high. The incubation period is typically seven to 30 days, although symptoms may be delayed for weeks or months depending on the infecting species and use of prophylaxis. It may present with nonspecific symptoms (e.g., fever, headache, myalgias, gastrointestinal complaints) that overlap with other serious travel-associated infections; providers should maintain a high index of suspicion in patients with compatible symptoms and relevant travel history.
GNYHA is interested in hearing from facilities that have identified gaps in malaria testing processes as we work with State partners to clarify regulations and enhance preparedness.