Fewer than half of US states adequately prepared for health emergency ahead of World Cup: Report

May 8, 2026 - 03:47

Only 20 states in the United States earned a "high" score for their ability to handle a major health crisis, according to a new report released Thursday. The annual assessment from the Trust for America's Health found that the majority of states remain underprepared for a large-scale emergency, raising concerns as the country prepares to host the FIFA World Cup in 2026.

The report evaluated states on a range of criteria, including public health funding, hospital capacity, disease surveillance, and the ability to respond to outbreaks or bioterrorism threats. While some states showed strong readiness, others scored poorly due to gaps in staffing, outdated infrastructure, or insufficient emergency planning.

Researchers highlighted that the upcoming World Cup, which will draw millions of international visitors to multiple U.S. cities, creates an urgent need for robust health security. Large gatherings increase the risk of infectious disease spread, and experts warn that a coordinated national response is essential.

The findings come at a time when public health systems are still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Many states have struggled to retain workers and maintain funding, leaving them vulnerable to new threats. The report calls for increased federal investment and standardized preparedness benchmarks to ensure all states can protect residents and visitors during high-profile events.