The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to take place in Toronto starting June 12, and in Vancouver on June 18, but the B.C healthcare system is concerned they won’t have the capacity to provide additional medical attention, as they are currently overworked.
Dr. Catherine Varner, the Canadian Medical Association Journal’s deputy editor and emergency Toronto surgeon, has done research that shows hospitals are put under a lot of stress during large social gatherings that cause disease outbreaks and excessive alcohol consumption. Concerns for outbreaks like measles and COVID-19 remain relevant, as many sports events in history have resulted in serious illnesses.
On the other hand, Toronto Surgeon Dr. Andrew Beckett believes proper preparations will be made.
“We’re looking at ways of being able to surge capacity within the hospitals by shutting down some elective surgeries if needed. Also recalling [staff] that may be in the area and available to help out in a crisis.”
Veronica is a Staff Writer at The Cascade. She loves to travel and explore new places, no matter how big or small. She is in her second year at UFV, pursuing the study of Creative
Writing.