The domain of infectious disease policy has undergone substantial transformations throughout history, deeply intertwined with the dynamic roles of frontline healthcare workers, notably nurses. In times of global health crises, the frontline experiences and interventions led by nurses have not only responded to immediate needs but have also significantly shaped and impacted policy frameworks. An examination of recent case studies, including the Republic of Korea's strategic approach to the COVID-19 pandemic, elucidates the integral contributions of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, in steering policy development and innovation. Despite nurses' pivotal involvement, there remains a lack of detailed historical analysis on their contributions, highlighting the necessity for further exploration in this area.

This Research Topic aims to offer a comprehensive historical review of infectious disease policies, tracking their evolution with an emphasis on the influential roles played by nurses and other frontline healthcare workers. Through detailed case studies from different regions, such as Korea's proactive policy adjustments amid COVID-19, the research will spotlight the critical roles healthcare professionals play in policy advocacy and revision. This study will delve into the broader historical contexts of infectious disease management, outlining the progressive development of policies from previous pandemics to current times. Key themes include exploring the resilience of health systems, considering social determinants of health, and assessing the impact of new infectious diseases on policy decision-making processes.

To gather further insights into how infectious disease policies have historically evolved and the indispensable role of nurses and healthcare workers in this trajectory, we welcome articles that address, but are not limited to, themes such as:

• Historical analysis of nurses' contributions to infectious disease policy development.
• International case studies demonstrating nurses' roles in shaping health policies.
• The intersection of social determinants of health with policy-making for infectious diseases.
• Building resilience in health systems through nurse-led initiatives.
• Impacts of newly-emerging infectious diseases on historical and modern policy shifts.

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Nurses Shaping Infectious Disease Policies: A Historical Perspective