The Unique Challenges and Expanded Role of Infection Prevention and Control in the Military: A Strategic Approach for Wartime and Peacetime

Several wars and pandemics have demonstrated the serious impacts of infectious diseases on the military, highlighting the importance of infection control.As a national defense organization, the military operates within specific cultural and environmental contexts distinct from civilian organizations.The unique conditions of war necessitate extensive efforts to prevent infections.Therefore, a strategic approach based on the understanding of its unique strengths and challenges is essential for proper infection control in the military.As the military is nationally dispersed and in contact with the surrounding communities, the readiness of this organization, along with its personnel, resources, and operational systems, is crucial for the protection of soldiers and civilians during infectious disease outbreaks.Therefore, joint efforts and academic and practical exchanges between the military and civilian sectors based on the comprehensive understanding of the military conditions and operations are necessary for prompt response to and control of infectious diseases.