Psychological dimensions of mass gatherings medicine

Description of impact

Mass gatherings are thought to be insanitary and a dangerous source of pandemics. Mass gatherings medicine pays no attention to the ways that the gatherings affect behaviours that impact on wellbeing and health risks. St Andrews research has led to a translational paper setting the agenda for the study of how mass gatherings affect protective and risky behaviours. Impact includes advice to the British Muslim Council on pilgrimages and is likely to be extended to encourage health at other gatherings (e.g. music festivals).

Who is affected

Individuals organising, and participating in, mass gatherings

Impact status	Open
Category of impact	Health and Welfare Impact, Cultural, Creative Impact, Social Impact
Impact level	Involvement - mid or active stage