Game On: Prepare for the World Cup During a Heat Wave
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is warning residents to expect high temperatures over the coming days. The department has issued an Unhealthy Heat Alert, which goes into effect when temperatures are forecasted to hit or exceed 85°F for three or more consecutive days. With World Cup 2026 soccer events bringing large crowds to the area, officials are reminding everyone to take precautions.
To prepare the community for the extreme heat, Sturdy Health clinicians would like to pass on these tips from the Bureau of Climate and Environmental Health.
Celebrate safely
We expect large gatherings and community events in our area during FIFA World Cup Games. We also anticipate celebrations of America’s 250th birthday. It's crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness (HRI) and understand how to prepare for extreme heat this summer.
Infants and young children are at risk of heat-related illness
Infants and young children depend on others to keep them safe and cool. Extreme heat can affect children’s health and development—both immediately and over time. Pregnant individuals are also more likely to experience health complications due to heat. This can include hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and other pregnancy-related risks. Even a single day of high heat can increase health risks during any trimester. Review the Extreme Heat webpage for information on how to stay safe during the heat.
Key recommendations
- Stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
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Make sure you and your children have access to hydration and cool environments. Encourage your children to drink water frequently, so make sure you have it readily available—even before they ask for it. Take water bottles with you if you go out. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that on hot days, infants receiving breast milk in a bottle can be given additional breast milk, but they should not be given water, especially in the first 6 months of life. Infants receiving formula can be given additional formula in a bottle.
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Dress children in lightweight, breathable clothing. Light-colored clothing can also help kids stay cool and prevent heat stress from excessive heat absorption. Try to choose loose fitting clothing that offers both adequate ventilation and protection against direct sun exposure. Clothing made with just one layer of absorbent material can help maximize the evaporation of sweat, which has a cooling effect (kids have lower sweat rates than adults).
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Adjust activity levels and rest schedules as needed. High heat can not only cause people to feel tired, but it may also contribute to irritability. Go inside regularly to cool off, rest, and drink water.
We encourage the community to call your primary care doctors or go to Urgent Care immediately if you or your child develops any of the following symptoms:
- Feeling faint
- Extreme tiredness (unusually sleepy, drowsy, or hard to arouse)
- Headache
- Fever
- Intense thirst
- Not urinating for many hours
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Breathing faster or deeper than normal
- Skin numbness or tingling
- Muscle aches
- Muscle spasms
We wish our communities a safe week and a safe and enjoyable World Cup. Please try to stay cool and know that we are here for you if you should need care.
