Postponed for a year due to the pandemic, EURO 2020 starts today. The month-long European football competition will see 24 teams playing for the top European prize across eleven host countries, observed by some 460 000 spectators. ECDC has already begun enhanced epidemic intelligence activities to keep the championships safe.
With COVID-19 restrictions in place, 51 games will be held between 11 June and 11 July, in 11 host countries, with seven EU Member States: Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, and Spain. The remaining four are Azerbaijan, England, Russia and Scotland. Some estimated 460 000 spectators will attend the games after showing proof of a negative COVID-19 test, vaccination, or previous COVID-19 infection.
To keep the Championships safe, ECDC started several enhanced epidemic intelligence activities on 4 June and will continue until 16 July 2021 (one week before, and one week after the event). Reports will be provided in the weekly Communicable Disease Threats Report (CDTR).
On the eve of EURO 2020, ECDC Director Andrea Ammon said
“As I am sure many in Europe are looking forward to EURO 2020 and watching their national teams in stadiums across the continent, it is important to remember that the pandemic is not over. We must remain vigilant in the face of any rise in infections; ECDC will play its part with increased Epidemic Intelligence activities before, during and after the tournament in an effort to keep everyone safe.”.
Information for participants and travellers
Before travelling, it is strongly advised to check the latest COVID-19 restrictions on the official websites of the hosting country and stadiums. The Re-open EU portal of the European Commission is a resource that will allow the public to keep up to date with guidelines to follow across the region.
In addition to COVID-19 requirements and recommendations, general health recommendations should apply to all, including being up to date with their vaccinations as necessary and according to national schedules. Travellers should also follow good hygiene practices to avoid food- and waterborne diseases and minimise the risk of respiratory diseases by washing hands often with water and soap, using hand sanitisers, practising cough etiquette, and wearing a mask. Avoid direct contact with any person presenting fever and/or respiratory symptoms (e.g. coughing, sneezing etc).
In case of fever or any other symptoms, one should consult a healthcare provider to enable early diagnosis and treatment. Infected individuals must refrain from any activity and direct contact with others. If the consultation happens after returning from travel, the healthcare provider should be informed about the travel to the UEFA hosting country.