WHO Global Youth Competition: Share Your Voice on Influenza and COVID-19 Prevention

The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling on young people worldwide to share their perspectives on preventing and controlling influenza and COVID-19. Through the WHO Global Youth Competition on Influenza & COVID-19 Prevention and Control 2026, students and young professionals have the opportunity to create short videos that highlight the importance of these health measures. This competition is a chance to address misinformation, encourage community protection, and showcase innovative approaches to public health.

Understanding the Competition Theme and Prompts

The central theme of the competition is: “How do you shield your circle from respiratory infections, like influenza and COVID-19?” Participants are asked to respond to this theme by creating a brief video that addresses one or more specific prompts. These prompts are designed to encourage thoughtful engagement with the topic of respiratory infection prevention.

Prompt 1: Who Needs Protection and Why?

This prompt asks participants to identify who is most vulnerable to seasonal influenza and COVID-19. It also requires an explanation of how these vulnerable groups can protect themselves and why this protection is important. This encourages a focus on equity and the specific needs of different populations within a community.

Prompt 2: Responding to Doubts

Here, participants are challenged to think about how they would address someone who expresses doubts about influenza and/or COVID-19 prevention and control methods within their community. This prompt focuses on communication skills and the ability to provide clear, accurate information in a persuasive manner.

Prompt 3: Tackling Myths

This prompt centers on identifying and debunking common myths about influenza and/or COVID-19 prevention and control that may be circulating in a community. It requires participants to not only recognize misinformation but also to offer effective ways to counter it.

Benefits for Participants

The WHO Global Youth Competition offers valuable recognition and opportunities for the winning entries. There will be one global winner, and up to six videos will be recognized as runners-up. The most impactful aspect for the winner is the chance to present their video during a global webinar focused on influenza and COVID-19 prevention and control, scheduled for October 2026. Additionally, the student(s) who created the winning video will receive a certificate from the WHO.

Eligibility and Submission Guidelines

To be eligible for the competition, participants must be students or young professionals between the ages of 18 and 35. Submissions must address at least one of the competition prompts and can be created individually or as part of a team. Videos should not exceed 90 seconds (1.5 minutes) in length, and participants can submit up to three videos.

Creativity is encouraged, with a wide range of video styles accepted, including storytelling, interviews, animations, and more. If artificial intelligence (AI) is used in any part of the video creation, it must be clearly acknowledged in the submission form. All videos must be in any language but must include English subtitles.

Judging Criteria for Submissions

Submissions will be evaluated based on several key criteria to ensure the quality and impact of the videos. These include how well the video message aligns with the competition theme and prompts, the originality and creativity of the content, and the accuracy and clarity of the health information presented. The visual style and storytelling quality will also be considered. Importantly, the video must include English subtitles, and the submission form must be completed accurately.

The submission form requires participants to detail their motivation for creating the video, explain how they addressed the chosen prompts, and discuss the potential impact and feasibility of their video for community dissemination. Confirmations regarding consent from any filmed individuals and the age eligibility of all participants are also mandatory.

How to Apply

All entries must be submitted through the designated Microsoft Forms link by Sunday, September 13, 2026, at 23:45 CEST. Interested individuals can find the application link and more detailed information on the WHO website. This competition is a fantastic opportunity for young people to contribute to global health awareness.

Conclusion

The WHO Global Youth Competition on Influenza & COVID-19 Prevention and Control 2026 offers a unique platform for young individuals to engage with critical public health issues. By creating short videos, participants can educate their communities, combat misinformation, and advocate for preventative measures against respiratory infections. This initiative empowers youth to become active participants in safeguarding public health and sharing vital information.