Zika: Radio Information Spots

"The power of radio, its proximity to the population and its ease of access, provide a unique opportunity to reach the largest number of people in the shortest possible time to effectively disseminate prevention messages during sanitary crises and epidemics." - UNESCO

The World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters (AMARC), the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent, and the World Health Organization (WHO) have released a series of 3 radio information spots designed to raise awareness in the fight against the Zika virus. From March 21 to April 17 2016, AMARC mobilised community radio stations from its network in Zika-affected countries in Latin America and the Caribbean to help disseminate prevention and health-related information via an international radio campaign.

The 60-second audio spots, now available to all online, depict 2 neighbours who inform each other about the risks of Zika and the best ways to protect against mosquitoes carrying the virus. The dialog provides all the necessary information. It continues with a third person, in order to illustrate the role that each of us can play in the dissemination of prevention messages.

1. "Protection from vector" (Spot 1) provides general information and effective measures to respect, to protect oneself his community. It is a general mobilisation message.
2. "Protect pregnant women" (Spot 2) aims to educate pregnant women about the specific risks of Zika virus.
3. "Avoiding rumors" (Spot 3) aims to propagate real and valid information about the virus and risks. This is to dispel the rumors and not to let a panic atmosphere arise in communities.

Available in 4 major languages of the region (English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese), the audio spots are available for download on Soundcloud and on AMARC's website.