Public Health is ‘Public Business’

With the recent outbreak of Mpox in Central Africa, the Nigeria Ministry of Health has reintroduced the Health Declaration Form –https://lnkd.in/dEURksih for all arriving passengers.

This serves as a stark reminder of the close connection between public health and travel, and the critical need for us to be responsible travelers.

The moment we step outside our personal spaces, our actions take on broader public health implications. This isn’t just about preventing the spread of illnesses and diseases, it’s also about how we care for the environment, manage our waste, use public facilities, interact in public spaces, and even the conversations we have with others.

All these actions contribute to the health and well-being of the communities we live in and visit. As we have the privilege of exploring new places and cultures, with that comes the responsibility of ensuring the safety and well-being of ourselves and those around us.

My journey in public health, combined with my passion for travel, continues to shape my perspective and the COVID-19 pandemic reinforced my decision to intertwine these two fields.

Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic, we were all reminded of how interconnected our world is. For many, including myself, it was the first time experiencing a global health crisis of that magnitude. The pandemic taught us valuable lessons that we must not forget, even as we move beyond it and continue to navigate through the new normal.

As travelers, we must be mindful of our responsibilities, not just in how we use public facilities and engage in social interactions, but also in our willingness to learn as we go. It is crucial for us to understand the responsibility that comes with traveling in a public health context.

We should be open to educating ourselves and others about responsible practices, fostering a culture of care and respect wherever we go. Just as we carefully plan our trips, we should also plan to travel responsibly, considering the impact we have on the health of others and the environment.

Let’s continue to stay informed and adapt to the ever-evolving guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience for everyone!