ECJ EUROPEAN Cleaning Journal

The European Centre for Disease Protection and Control will be keeping a close eye on infection risks in Russia for people attending this summer's FIFA World Cup, which starts later this week.

Outbreaks are a general concern at any mass gathering and foodborne illnesses are expected in some areas, particularly in warmer parts of the country where high temperatures may allow pathogens to flourish.

Fans are being advised to wash their hands at frequent intervals and drink plenty of boiled or bottled water to help reduce their risk of falling ill.

Health officials are also urging football fans to ensure that all their vaccinations are up to date before heading to Russia - with MMR jabs being a particular issue. This advice follows a deadly outbreak of measles which is currently sweeping the continent.

More than 18,000 cases of measles were reported in Europe in the first three months of 2018, at least 600 of which occurred in Russia according to the World Health Organisation.

Vaccinations against measles are crucial in preventing the disease, but frequent hand washing - or sanitising the hands with a product containing at least 60 per cent alcohol - will offer some level of protection according to the US Centers for Disease Control.

The Russia World Cup begins on June 14 and matches will be held at various venues, culminating in the final in Moscow on July 15.