The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched its first Global Youth Competition on Influenza and COVID-19 Prevention and Control, inviting students and young professionals aged 18 to 35 from around the world to help raise awareness through creative video content.
The competition aims to support global advocacy by encouraging participants to create short, engaging videos that promote the importance of influenza and COVID-19 prevention and control. Entries are encouraged to be innovative, tackle misinformation, and highlight practical ways to protect individuals and communities from respiratory infections.
Competition theme
“How do you shield your circle from respiratory infections, like influenza and COVID-19?”
Participants are invited to respond to one or more of the following prompts:
- Who needs protection from seasonal influenza and COVID-19, and why are vulnerable groups particularly important?
- How would you respond to someone who has doubts about influenza or COVID-19 prevention and control?
- What myths or misinformation are circulating in your community, and how can they be addressed?
Key dates
The competition opens on 3 August 2026, with entries closing on 13 September 2026 at 23:45 CEST.
Competition information and entry form: WHO competition webpage
Submit your entry: Microsoft Forms
Prizes
One overall winner and up to six runners-up will be selected. Winning videos will be showcased by WHO. The overall winner will also be invited to present their video during a global webinar in October 2026 and will receive a personalised WHO certificate.
Questions? Email: influenzavaccination@who.int
