Health & Safety Guidance for Global Soccer Event in KC 2026

Whether you live in the Kansas City area or are just visiting, this page can help you discover ways to stay safe and healthy this summer during all the festivities of the global soccer tournament. 

Local business owners and community leaders: check back here for upcoming resources— including printable materials and social media graphics—to help you share public health messages. Or subscribe to our monthly email newsletter, where future resources will be shared.

Interested in having a public health professional chat with your organization about preparation? Contact us at comms@clayhealth.com.

Resources from Clay County Public Health

Soccer player in blue reaching for a germ with a soccer pattern in the background

Food Safety

Serving/Selling Food to the Public

If you plan to operate a food truck or pushcart, or serve food temporarily (special event or outdoor event), make sure you work with the health department to get permitted in the locations you wish to operate in. When working together to ensure workers are properly trained and equipment is safe and ready, we can protect the health of our community and keep the fun going this summer!  

Serving Food at Home

When serving food to family and friends, keep these tips in mind to keep everyone safe:

  • Avoid the danger zone (40°F-140°F) – keep cold foods cold with ice baths or coolers. Keep hot foods hot with warmers or chafing dishes. Put food in the refrigerator within two hours of sitting out (or sooner if it’s outside in high heat).
  • Use a food thermometer to ensure your food reaches a safe minimum internal temperature. For chicken and leftovers, you should aim for 165°F, but the temperature will depend on the food item. Find a detailed guide from USDA here.
  • Keep it clean – wash your hands with hot water and soap before and after meal prep. Also, sanitize surfaces and utensils that came into contact with food.
  • Keep raw meat away from other foods by using separate cutting boards, washing hands immediately after handling, and cleaning and sanitizing any areas or tools used in preparation.
  • More tips for preventing food poisoning.

Enjoying Food from Food Establishments

While food vendors and health departments have the main responsibility of preventing foodborne illnesses, event attendees can also ask these questions when deciding where and what to eat, while reducing their changes of getting sick. 

  • Does the vendor display their proof of permit? Usually a sticker or paper certificate, permits help ensure that vendors have the necessary safety equipment like handwashing stations and that staff have been trained in food safety instruction.
  • Is food stored safely? Prepared foods should be kept cold or hot and protected from contaminants like bugs, dust, and more.
  • Do the food workers and kitchen look safe and clean? Workers shouldn’t handle food if they’re sick (like coughing or have a fever), have open cuts, or aren’t wearing hair restraints. The kitchen should look fairly clean and tidy, and raw foods should be kept away from cooked or ready-to-eat foods.

Have concerns about a food vendor? Make a report here:

Infectious Disease

There are many types of diseases that can spread from person to person, especially during large events. Some of the most universal tips to avoid catching an illness include:

  • Washing your hands frequently.
  • Getting vaccinated against diseases that offer vaccination, like COVID and measles.
  • Wearing a face mask.
  • Keeping distance from those already sick.
  • Disinfecting objects and surfaces.
  • Avoiding bug bites.
  • Practicing safe sex.

Get Up to Date on Vaccination

People (and germs) will be coming from all over the world, potentially from places that have different diseases or vaccination practices and availability. Locals are encouraged to stay current on all available vaccinations as a way of staying healthy while more tourists are in the community.

Health officials recommend adults and families check if they are up to date on: 

Stay Aware of Trends

More resources coming soon!

heat exhaustion versus heat stroke

Heat Safety

Welcome to Kansas City, where the summer's high humidity can make it feel hotter than it is. Some top tips for staying cool:

  • Stay hydrated - carry a water bottle or be aware of where you can get water at all times (water fountains, vendors, etc.).
  • Wear light, breathable clothing.
  • Seek shade or air conditioning when possible.
  • Avoid being outside for long during the hottest time of the day (3-6 p.m.).
  • Protect your body by wearing a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (or lightweight long sleeves).

More info: Ready.gov - Extreme Heat

More resources coming soon!