Blessings in disguise: public health emergency preparedness for World Youth Day 2008

• Mass gatherings, such as World Youth Day (WYD) 2008 in Sydney, provide an opportunity for public health workers to gain emergency management experience. • Communicable disease (mainly influenza) among pilgrims was the major public health issue during WYD. • Public health workers also identified environmental health issues, resulting in hazard reduction measures being made to reduce falls. • Other public health issues highlighted include training, communication, surge capacity, and health education.