Spread the Message, Not the Virus - Graphic Story

This series of graphic stories covers various aspects of prevention and treatment of Ebola in Liberia. Published by International Organization for Migration (IOM) Liberia, the social mobilisation tool is being used by IOM and their partners and was developed with the guidance of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, World Health Organization (WHO), and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).
The first graphic story was created in order to raise awareness about preventing Ebola and seeking early care when Ebola is suspected. The story is about a woman called Teta who travelled to the village for her cousin's funeral. When she returns, she exhibits symptoms that point to Ebola: fever, sore throat, vomiting, running stomach, and weakness. On realising the symptoms, Teta's mother Miriam considers if it may be malaria, but Peter mentions the possibility of Ebola, and warns Mariam not to touch Teta. Mariam is reluctant at first to send Teta in an ambulance to the treatment centre, but Peter convinces her it is the right thing to do. Through Peter, the comic also gives advice around prevention methods and portrays the welcoming of people returning from the treatment centre back into the community, as they can no longer spread Ebola.
The third graphic story in the series is intended for communities along the borders and contains key messages for social mobilisation. The story focuses on the importance of health screening and adopting preventive behaviours when traveling across the border, both at crossing points and while abroad.