Decision making techniques in mass gathering medicine during the COVID-19 pandemia: a scoping review

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected mass gatherings (MGs) worldwide, necessitating the implementation of advanced decision support techniques. These techniques, including mathematical models and risk assessment tools, have played a critical role in ensuring the safe conduct of events by mitigating the spread of SARS-CoV-2. This mini-review aims to explore and synthesize the decision support methodologies employed in managing MGs during the COVID-19 pandemic. A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines covering the period from 2020 to 2024. Studies were categorized by event type (e.g., academic, religious, political, sports) and decision-making tools applied. The review identified a range of decision support techniques, with risk assessment and simulation tools being the most commonly employed across various event types. A total of 199 studies were initially identified, with 10 selected finally for inclusion based on relevance to decision support techniques. Case studies included the successful risk mitigation strategies during the 2020 Hajj, the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Techniques such as fuzzy logic, Bayesian analysis, and multi-criteria decision-making were also highlighted, particularly in complex scenarios. These tools significantly contributed to reducing COVID-19 transmission risks at large-scale events. The review underscores the importance of decision support systems in the safe management of MGs during the pandemic. Further research should focus on the integration of emerging technologies and the long-term impacts of decision support tools on public health management.