Winter Olympic 2026 Continues Disease Outbreak Free

With over 2 million spectators expected to visit Italy during the Winter 2026 Olympic Games, this large gathering has not yet faced any health emergencies.

As of February 16, 2026, and following the latest update from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), no significant public health events related to communicable diseases have been identified in connection with the Winter Olympic Games.

The ECDC's Communicable Disease Threats Report for week #7 states that the probability of European citizens contracting communicable diseases during the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games 2026 is low if general preventive measures are implemented.

Furthermore, there are no vaccination requirements to attend the Games.

However, the U.S. CDC recommends various routine and travel vaccinations before visiting Italy.

From a safety perspective, the U.S. State Department has issued a Level 2 Travel Advisory regarding civil unrest in Italy.

Should a health emergency arise, the U.S. Embassy in Italy says the consular sections in Milan, Rome, Florence, and Naples currently have reduced availability; however, the Consular Agency in Venice will be available to provide emergency American Citizen Services.

The U.S. government recommends that travelers enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program when visiting Italy. It is a free service that sends digital updates and alerts from U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.