Engaging the Public in Global Health Security

The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC), under the leadership of Director Ji Young-mi, is spearheading a nationwide initiative to bolster awareness regarding overseas infectious diseases and promote responsible travel practices.This campaign, running from April 7th to April 27th, aims to encourage voluntary quarantine participation and emphasize the critical role of reporting potential health risks upon re-entry into the country.

With international travel rebounding after the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for public vigilance regarding infectious diseases remains paramount. According to recent data from the World health Organization (WHO), certain regions are experiencing resurgences of diseases like malaria and dengue fever, underscoring the importance of pre-travel health precautions and post-travel monitoring.

A Nationwide Contest for creative Health Messaging

At the heart of the KCDC’s campaign is a public contest inviting submissions across various media formats, including short videos, posters, and handwritten pieces. The contest seeks innovative and easily understandable content focused on:

• Illustrating the practical application of overseas infectious disease facts.
• Highlighting effective strategies for preventing the spread of overseas infectious diseases.
• Reinforcing the significance of quarantine measures.
• Motivating voluntary reporting of potential health concerns upon arrival in Korea.

Open to participants of all nationalities and ages, the contest aims to gather diverse perspectives on healthy overseas travel. Submissions, including an application form, can be sent to KDCAKMJ1339@naver.com.

Recognition and Impact

Winners will be announced on May 12th, with 18 entries selected by a panel of experts and through public evaluation. A total of 6.9 million won in prizes will be awarded. the winning entries will be recognized on Quarantine Day, May 13th, and subsequently utilized across various online platforms, including social media channels and the KCDC’s official website, to disseminate crucial health information.

This initiative reflects a growing trend in public health,leveraging creative communication strategies to engage citizens in safeguarding their own health and the health of their communities. Similar campaigns have been successfully implemented in other countries.For example, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) regularly uses infographics and short videos to communicate public health messages related to travel and infectious diseases.

Director Ji Young-mi’s Call to Action

Director Ji Young-mi emphasized the importance of public participation, stating:

We look forward to the use of information on overseas infectious diseases, compliance with prevention rules, the contest of the people’s thoughts for the prevention of the spread of infectious diseases through voluntary reporting, inspections, and the people’s thoughts for quarantine.
Ji Young-mi, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The KCDC encourages the public to access information about national quarantine services and related resources on its official website.