A Training Manual for Media Workshops on Avian Influenza

This document, on the training of journalists to report on avian influenza (bird flu), is a two-part trainers' manual assembled by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and Internews, with support from the government of Japan. In Part I, the manual approaches organising training workshops for journalists by giving a methodology for trainers and media support organisations interested in providing courses on the coverage of avian influenza. Part II provides a sample three-day training course agenda, complete with suggested lectures, discussion topics, exercises, suggested reading, field trip planning, and field safety guidelines for journalists covering avian influenza. The manual states in its introduction: "Given this possibility [of an avian flu pandemic], it is important to recognize that responsible health journalism can play a significant role in informing the public of the risks of avian influenza (AI), and how to prevent human infection. Accurate and focused media coverage could also potentially limit the impact of pandemic influenza."

The manual offers information from The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), as well as scientific journals and academic research. It includes practical suggestions for trainers to help journalists tailor avian influenza knowledge gained from the training sessions to the specific needs of their audience.

Contents of Part I include:

• Understanding training needs;
• The participatory approach;
• Preparing for a workshop, including: when to hold a training, selecting workshop participants, selecting and engaging speakers, getting permission and selecting the training venue, reviewing online resources, and selecting handouts and print articles for exercises;
• Preparing for a field visit, including: choosing sites and logistical arrangements for field visits; and
• Planning the structure of a workshop.

Contents of Part II include:

• Day One - Sessions:
1. How the flu virus works and why it is a threat;
2. The public health response to avian influenza and pandemic influenza preparedness;
3. Risk communication for behaviour change; and
4. Introducing the key preventive messages.
• Day Two - Sessions:
1. Avian influenza in domestic avian populations: The risk of spread from infected poultry and wild migratory birds;
2. The eco-health perspective in avian influenza coverage; and
3. Field trip.
• Day Three - Sessions:
1. Discussion of field trip coverage and group presentations;
2. Discussion: Ethical reporting on children as regards avian influenza;
3. Discussion: Safety while covering avian influenza;
4. Closing the workshop; and
5. Evaluating the workshop.

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