CBA Ebola Briefing for Broadcasters in Affected Areas

Published by the Commonwealth Broadcasting Association (CBA), this 8-page guide is designed to help broadcasters in Ebola-affected areas "to develop a clear strategy to ensure that they are able to provide continuous and effective operations during the outbreak."
According the CBA, "Public radio and TV stations everywhere are in a unique position to disseminate vital information, but they also have a chance to build audience trust as citizens seek reliable information to assist in their coping and survival." As stated in the briefing, maintaining public trust in authorities is considered the most important pillar of successful outbreak communication, and broadcasters and journalists play a key role in building this trust by giving people the information they need consistently and accurately.
The guidance offered in this publication draws upon CBA's experience in providing specialised training for broadcasting during emergencies, such as pandemics. The briefing emphasises the importance of accurate information, which includes finding trustworthy sources and ensuring information is locally relevant (e.g., bleach might be known by a brand name, which will vary between countries). It stresses the need to identify and build relationships with health and aid organisations working in-country to share accurate information, and offers a selection of story angles.
It also offers guidelines on measures staff should take to ensure their health and safety when they visit affected areas, as well as guidelines for station managers on how to keep stations running when staff and media and safety equipment are in short supply.