Media orientation on bird flu organised
Twenty-five health journalists and editors representing several Nepalese
media organisations participated in a one-day media orientation on the
H5N1 virus, known commonly as avian influenza. The orientation, sponsored
by the Government of Nepal, U.S. Agency for International Development
(USAID), and its project, AI.COMM, was held on Sunday at the Hotel
Himalaya in Lalitpur.
The focus of the orientation was to provide the media with correct
information about the virus and how it is transmitted as well as to
explain the best practices to follow in order to prevent it and respond to
it.
"The orientation meeting was organized by AI.COMM and Thompson-Nepal. It
is one of a series of activities being conducted by the government and
USAID to inform the public on prevention of avian influenza as a result of
the recent outbreaks in Jhapa District," states a press release issued by
the AI.COMM.
In addition to the media orientation, AI.COMM is organising capacity
building workshops in 23 districts for human and animal health workers
and will begin social mobilization and community theatre activities in
Morang and Jhapa districts as well as Kathmandu Valley.
"Although many countries including Nepal have managed to get avian
influenza under control, the virus remains present and is still a lethal
threat. As a key source of information, the media can play a crucial role
in keeping the virus at bay. With this awareness-raising orientation
session, the media will be better informed about avian influenza and can
then share accurate and critical information necessary for all Nepalis to
stay safe and healthy," the release quoted Beth S. Paige, Mission Director
of USAID/Nepal as saying.
AI.COMM is a USAID-funded global behavior change and communication
activity to prevent and respond to avian influenza. It is managed by AED,
a Washington-based NGO.
Influenza A virus subtype H5N1, also known as "bird flu," H5N1, is a
subtype of the Influenza A virus which can cause illness in humans and
many other animal species. nepalnews March 15 09
