At a glance
2026 DIS Recognition Day
Dear Colleagues,
On Friday, October 2, we will commemorate the 15th annual National Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS) Recognition Day under the theme "The Rhythm of Public Health," honoring the harmony that connects the collaboration, partnerships, and communities involved in disease intervention. So, let's turn up the volume as we celebrate these public health rockstars! One appointment, one introduction, one meeting at a time, DIS create the steady tempo that improves lives and builds healthier communities.
DIS have fulfilled a commitment to safeguard America's health for nearly one century. These stalwart sentinels have tirelessly and directly confronted diseases and alerted and identified evolving health threats. DIS have repeatedly, quickly, and thoughtfully responded to outbreaks, from sexually transmitted infections to hepatitis and HIV to COVID-19. Their adaptability and expertise contributed to developing effective prevention and treatment strategies; and mitigating the impact of infectious disease on our communities.
To build on that legacy and ensure DIS are equipped for today's challenges, a new national certification formalizes the skills they already bring to the field. The Certified Disease Intervention (CDI) initiative sets a national standard that recognizes the knowledge and skills of disease intervention professionals. By aligning training and practice across jurisdictions, CDI strengthens the public health response to emergencies with greater consistency. It also supports the career growth of DIS, offering a clear path to recognized expertise. To date, 1,079 candidates have earned this credential, a number we expect to keep growing. Ultimately, we want communities and employers beyond public health to recognize DIS as the trusted partners and impactful professionals they are.
To each and every DIS, we send our heartfelt gratitude for your unyielding commitment as you continue to selflessly serve our country. We invite our STI partners far and wide to join us in celebrating your dedication to public health and the profound impact you continue to have in communities throughout this nation.
With gratitude and honor,
Puja Seth, PhD
Acting Director, Division of STD Prevention
National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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