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Background: In Europe, Public Health Residents (PHR) have participated in the response against COVID-19.The pandemic has had a profound mental health (MH) impact on healthcare workers, but little evidence has been accrued about the Public Health (PH) workforce.The current study aims at assessing prevalence and risk factors for pandemic-related depression (D), anxiety (A) and stress (S). Methods: Between March 22 and April 11, 2021 we administered an online survey to PHR from France, Italy, Portugal and Spain, recruited through the national associations of PHR.We collected socio-demographic data and assessed changes in the working conditions due to COVID-19.We used the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21.Cut-off scores for D, A and S were: 9, 7, and 14.Multivariable logistic regression models were applied to determine risk factors for pandemic-related MH outcomes.Data analysis was performed with SPSS version 27. Results: 443 out of approximately 2000 PHR completed the survey, response rate: 22.15%. Most responders (n=226; 51%) were from Italy, 87 (19.6%) from Portugal, 74 (16.47%) from Spain and 56 (12.6%) from France. Median age: 29 years (IQR 25 33). Female/male ratio: 1.6. PHR above the cut-offs for D, A and S were: 60.5%, 43.1%, 61.2%.DASS-21 scores were 13.3 (± 10.27), 8.13 (± 7.79), 19.06 (± 9.71), respectively.Across the multivariable logistic regression models, the main identified predictors were: for D - the COVID-19 impact on PH training (OR 1.78, 95% CI [1.12-2.80], p=0.014); for A - the loss of research opportunities (OR 1.94, 95% CI [1.28-2.93], p=0.002) and for psychological S - the year of residency (last year vs other years of residency: OR 2.3, 95% CI [1.204.38], p=0.012). Conclusions: Our sample featured mild-to-moderate levels of prevalent D, A and moderate levels of psychological stress.Overall, the main risk factors associated with negative psychometric outcomes were training challenges, loss of research opportunities and residency seniority. Key messages: During the pandemic it is vital to increase knowledge and awareness about the impact of the health emergency on mental health in the Public Health workforce. It is important to deploy concrete efforts into building healthy work environments, guarantee adequate training and research opportunities for Public Health Residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The European Network of Medical Residents in Public Health (EuroNet MRPH) is a non-profit, international, independent and non-governmental network of national associations of public health residents around Europe. Objectives: To describe the results accomplished by EuroNet MRPH and to show networking opportunities provided to medical residents in public health (MRPH) from 2011 to 2021. Results: EuroNet’s mission is to improve and facilitate connection between MRPH, to promote pan-European Research, and to facilitate international mobility. Digital and quarterly face-toface meetings are used as a way of communication. Since 2011, 10 European MRPH associations and 4 individual members have joined the network, representing the UK, France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Ireland, the Netherlands, Croatia, Slovenia, Turkey, Malta, Poland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Austria. In this period, 27 face-to-face meetings have been organised, promoting cooperation and exchanging of ideas between MRPH. Moreover, three working groups (WG) have been established, focusing on research, internships, and communication. Regarding research, studies about e-cigarettes, conflicts of interest, and the impact of COVID-19 on mental health of MRPH have been conducted. When it comes to internships, more than 20 possible destinations and an online form are available on our website, providing MRPH information and support. Finally, thanks to the communication WG, 20 newsletters have been published, sharing experiences and thoughts from members of the network. Moreover, EuroNet has an established presence in social media, with active accounts in Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, where public health information and opportunities for young professionals are promoted. Conclusions: In the last ten years, EuroNet MRPH has actively promoted networking opportunities among European Medical Residents in Public Health. Key messages: Enhancing international cooperation among young public health professionals is fundamental in order to face current and future public health challenges. EuroNet MRPH represents a useful tool to promote collaboration among young public health professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]