Covering Outbreaks of Infectious Diseases: A Guide to Better Journalism - Lessons Learned from Global Coverage of the Ebola Virus Crisis

Based on lessons learned from media coverage of the 2014 Ebola epidemic in West Africa, this guide was produced to help journalists and the media industry to "deliver a more public-interest oriented service geared towards combating the spread of the disease." According to the guide, the quick spread of Ebola, as well as the prevalence of other viral diseases in Africa, point to a need to improve preparedness, and this includes ensuring that the media is equipped to play their public interest role when there is a disease outbreak.
The guidelines were drafted based on information and discussions gleaned from articles, discussion forums, guidelines for health personnel, interventions by governments and non-governmental organisations, advisories for media associations in the affected countries, and anecdotes by journalists. In November 2014, the African Media Initiative convened a Consultative Forum of Media Strategies in Nairobi, Kenya. These discussions identified critical concerns and gaps associated with coverage of infectious diseases, which are also addressed in these guidelines.
As outlined in the guide, trusted sources of information were clearly identified as a key component of countering the outbreak, and media was at the frontline of this. The guidelines offer numerous tips to keep in mind while reporting on Ebola, such as those related to professional ethics, supporting awareness campaigns, and avoiding sensationalism. It also provides key facts and tips for journalists to stay healthy and safe when reporting on outbreaks.