Amplifying any message, translation can help get good public health information into the right hands.
The goal of public health is to improve the quality of life for human populations by preventing and treating disease. Under normal circumstances, public health information might include promoting handwashing and encouraging the use of condoms. But in more extreme circumstances, such as the current pandemic of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), public health information acquires new dimensions seemingly overnight.
Timely and accurate public health information, such as that offered by the World Health Organization, CDC and NYC Health, promotes greater health, safety and well-being among the general population. Currently, public health information is providing crucial tips and instructions on how to prevent disease transmission, as well as what to do if you have symptoms or if you have contracted the disease. It is also keeping people abreast of the latest research-based facts and developments.
Due to the generalized nature of the COVID-19 risk, it’s essential that all communities understand what’s going on and what they can do to keep themselves and others safe. However, not everyone speaks the same language with the same degree of fluency. This is why tourists, visitors, ELLs, immigrants and refugees can all benefit from the translation of public health information. Translating vital public health information helps to break down the barriers of getting everyone on board with the public plans.
New York City has made it a priority to try to stop the spread of COVID-19 through good public health information and distribution.
While right now NYC Health might best be known for it’s two-page memo on having sex (or not) during the COVID-19 emergency, it is currently providing key facts and information in 23 different languages, like this Novel Coronavirus Outbreak Factsheet in Spanish or this Stop the Spread of Coronavirus Flyer in Arabic. People can access and share this information with others online, or print out these resources to have at home or post in public places.
It’s not just governments and international organizations that need to communicate for the good of public health. Hospitals, clinics, universities, food distributors and a range of other organizations like yours need to inform patients, clients, the public and other stakeholders about how to most efficiently and responsibly access healthcare, supplies and other resources. And when that message is ready, translation can extend your reach in the community even further.
If you require translation, Responsive Translation can help. Headquartered in New Jersey but operating remotely, we support organizations around the globe who need to communicate with their stakeholders in any language. Please get in touch at 646-847-3309 or [email protected] for more information.