New York health officials are holding a contest for people ages 18 to 26 to make their own social media videos in order to raise awareness of monkeypox and how to prevent its spread. 

The video contest is meant to be aimed at raising awareness among college-age New Yorkers and comes as public health officials have sought to curtail the virus in recent months. 

The contest is open to students and student associations in New York colleges, universities and graduate schools. Health officials want videos of up to 15 seconds to education other students about monkeypox transmission, dangers and prevention. 

“Hearing from other students through social media videos is a unique way for college students to stay informed about monkeypox so they understand the symptoms, how it spreads, and what to do if they are exposed,” state Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett said. “It’s particularly important to remind college-aged students that anyone can get monkeypox, so campuses should communicate that monkeypox is a public health concern for everyone and how to prevent transmission of this virus.”

Anyone can contract monkeypox, but the outbreak since the start of the spring has disproportionantly affected men in the LGBTQ communities. 

Winning videos will be feautred on the Department of Health's social media channels with gift cards as prizes. 

More on the contest can be found here.