International Federation of Red Cross (IFRC) H1N1 Tool Kit

This action tool, offered by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, includes concrete communication advice for those working in the context of an H1N1 influenza pandemic. The toolkit begins by concisely explaining the swine flu, then offers suggestions for volunteers working in epidemics so that they can protect themselves from the disease.

Next, strategies for communicating health messages to the community are offered - with the caveat that different forms and methods of communication should be used depending on the intended group and the number of available volunteers. Amongst the suggestions here are the following:

• "Visual methods - Pictures, drawings and symbols can be used as an effective communication method for people who are not able to read too well.
• Written materials - Leaflets, one-page flyers, newsletters, etc. (all of these are very useful if the target groups are able to read).
• One-to-one communication - Talking directly to people, counselling and education by peers/friends can influence people to change their behaviours.
• Media - Using mass media such as radio and television or printed media such as newspapers to give messages to many people at the same time can be a very effective way for you to design good and suitable messages for your community.
• Peer education - Peers (people of similar age and background) are often very effective relays for communicating messages on how to live healthily. Peer education can be done in neighbourhoods, schools, youth clubs, work places and religious institutions.
• Oral communication - Short talks with people in the community, house-to-house visits, storytelling or one-to-one communication are all very effective ways of communicating with the community. Do not undertake direct contact unless you are properly protected.
• School-based learning - Teachers can play an important role in influencing their students to change behaviour and in communicating key messages to them.
• Religious institutions - Religious leaders and institutions can also play a significant role in influencing community participation and promoting good health practices.
• Adult learning - Use interactive methods to promote discussion among adults, such as real-life examples and illustrations. Tell stories about how people can help their families and others."

Three key messages that volunteers should spread as widely as possible as part of community mobilisation and health promotion efforts are detailed next: personal hygiene/handwashing, respiratory etiquette, and keeping a safe distance (between people). Other topics covered include detection and referral of new and suspected cases to health facilities, isolation of sick people, and handling dead bodies/psychosocial first aid.