Avian Influenza: Media Orientation Training Notes

These training notes have been developed by the Academy for Educational Development to help local media understand avian flu and the issues surrounding the virus so that they are better able to accurately and confidently report on bird flu.

The training notes are based on evidence-based information and include a step-by-step process of how to plan, prepare and conduct a media orientation workshop on avian influenza. The notes include detailed descriptions on 13 different workshop sessions which include the roles and responsibilities of the trainer, materials needed and details on what to say for each session.

The training notes include 11 informational handouts that accompany the workshop sessions. Some of the handouts include:

• Key Facts about Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) and Avian Influenza A (H5N1) Virus;
• Frequently Asked Questions;
• Updated List of Countries Affected by Avian Influenza (H5N1);
• Key Behaviors to Reduce the Risk of Contracting the Virus: Working with Poultry;
• Internet Resources for Covering Avian Influenza;
• Guidelines for Reporting on Risk; and
• Avian Influenza Glossary of Terms.

The training notes also include sample templates of workshop registration forms, evaluation forms and a sample certificate of completion.

The topics covered by the workshop include: agriculture; emergency/transition; environmental health (including hygiene); and handwashing/hygiene.

The strategies covered by the workshop include: behaviour change communication; social marketing; commercial and private sector partnerships; and interpersonal communication/counseling.