Training Course on Crisis Communication In Public Health Emergencies Training Course

Module 1: Foundations of Crisis and Risk Communication in Public Health
Learning Objectives:
Define crisis and risk communication and their role in health emergencies.
Explore the importance of trust and credibility in public messaging.
Subtopics:
Principles of risk communication (timeliness, transparency, empathy, accuracy)
The role of communication in outbreak and emergency response
Behavioral and psychological aspects of crisis communication
International guidelines (WHO, CDC frameworks for risk communication)
Case Study / Exercise:
Case: WHO’s communication strategy during the Ebola outbreak in West Africa
Exercise: Identifying gaps in sample communication statements

Module 2: Crafting Effective Messages in Emergencies
Learning Objectives:
Develop clear, concise, and culturally sensitive messages.
Adapt messaging to different populations and communication channels.
Subtopics:
Structuring messages under pressure (clarity, empathy, reassurance)
Tailoring communication for vulnerable populations
Language, tone, and framing in emergency communication
Multi-channel communication: radio, TV, social media, community networks
Case Study / Exercise:
Case: Communication strategies during the H1N1 influenza pandemic
Workshop: Drafting and testing crisis messages for different audiences

Module 3: Media Engagement and Public Trust
Learning Objectives:
Build effective relationships with media stakeholders.
Manage interviews and press conferences under pressure.
Subtopics:
Working with local and international media during emergencies
Handling difficult questions and maintaining credibility
Spokesperson training: delivery, body language, tone
Role of media monitoring in adjusting communication strategies
Case Study / Exercise:
Case: Media briefings during COVID-19 in New Zealand
Simulation: Press conference role-play during a disease outbreak

Module 4: Misinformation, Disinformation, and Social Media Management
Learning Objectives:
Identify, monitor, and respond to misinformation and disinformation.
Use social media strategically in health crisis communication.
Subtopics:
The “infodemic” challenge in public health emergencies
Tools for monitoring and countering misinformation online
Social media crisis management strategies
Collaborating with influencers, tech platforms, and community leaders
Case Study / Exercise:
Case: Social media misinformation during COVID-19 vaccine rollouts
Exercise: Designing a rapid response strategy to counter online misinformation

Module 5: Designing Crisis Communication Plans and Simulations
Learning Objectives:
Build comprehensive communication plans for health emergencies.
Apply lessons from case studies and simulations to real-world practice.
Subtopics:
Key elements of a crisis communication plan
Stakeholder mapping and coordination
Integrating communication into national emergency preparedness frameworks
Evaluating communication effectiveness during and after crises
Case Study / Exercise:
Case: Singapore’s coordinated communication approach during SARS
Capstone Simulation: Developing and presenting a crisis communication plan for a hypothetical outbrea