Theme 2025: “Making Our Mark: Field Epidemiology in Action” | Symbol: Disease Detective
I. Overview:
World Field Epidemiology Day is observed every year on September 7 to honor the vital role of field epidemiologists – the global “disease detectives” – in safeguarding public health. Coordinated by TEPHINET (Training Programs in Epidemiology and Public Health Interventions Network) and supported by institutions like the CDC and ECDC, the day celebrates professionals trained through Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs) who lead responses to health threats ranging from Ebola to COVID-19 and zoonotic outbreaks
II. Significance of the Theme 2025:
This year theme shines a spotlight on the tangible impact that field epidemiologists have in preventing, detecting, and controlling health threats across the globe. It underscores the importance of investing in training, partnerships, and infrastructure that empower these professionals to strengthen public health systems and improve population health outcomes.
III. What is World Field Epidemiology Day?
It is an international observance dedicated to raising awareness about field epidemiology’s essential contributions to global health security. Celebrated since 2021, the day encourages storytelling, advocacy, and visibility for FETP graduates working on the frontlines during emergencies, surveillance activities, and outbreak investigations. It aims to promote investment in training more field epidemiologists worldwide.
IV. Quick Facts about Field Epidemiology: 💡
- Field epidemiologists identify cases, trace contacts, and analyze data to control outbreaks.
- FETPs are delivered through 75 programs in over 100 countries, training more than 19,000 professionals.
- They are frontline responders in crises.
- TEPHINET coordinates global collaboration to support FETP programs and advance workforce capabilities.
V. A Brief History of World Field Epidemiology Day:
1854: John Snow presents findings from the Broad Street cholera outbreak that led to removing the water pump handle – an early example of field epidemiology in action.
2021: The first World Field Epidemiology Day is held, coordinated by TEPHINET.
2024: The theme for2024 is “Collaboration is Essential to Field Epidemiology”.
2025: The theme “Making Our Mark: Field Epidemiology in Action” highlights the growing impact and need to invest in an adaptive, skilled field epidemiology workforce.
VI. How to Observe World Field Epidemiology Day:
- Share stories of field epidemiologists and FETP graduates using #WorldFieldEpidemiologyDay or #WFED.
- Host webinars, panels, or workshops highlighting disease surveillance, outbreak investigations, and capacity building.
- Encourage policymakers to support training programs, funding, and career pathways for field epidemiologists.
- Collaborate with public health institutions to showcase FETP work and its impact on community health.
- Engage students and professionals in epidemiology through shadowing, mentorship, or awareness campaigns.
🔗 References:
- https://www.cdc.gov/global-health-protection/php/campaigns-and-awareness/world-field-epidemiology-day.html
- https://www.worldfieldepidemiologyday.org/
- https://isid.org/world-field-epidemiology-day/
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