AI.COMM - Avian and Pandemic Influenza Resource Link

16
B FINAL REPORT
In Bangladesh, evidence-based message and material development using
epidemiologic data and fi ndings from research were designed and translated
into fl yers, songs, bunting and banners, radio ads, community theater
performances and social mobilization activities at markets and other public
venues. Civil society members and animal health volunteers also visited markets
to distribute fl yers and posters, dispense information, answer questions and
encourage correct behaviors to reduce the risk of spreading AI.
To coordinate myriad activities and
ensure that they meshed well with other
initiatives, AI.COMM spearheaded an
effort to establish a social network that
would bring together most stakeholders
to pool their resources and ensure that
messages going out to the public were
consistent. The network – consisting
of NGO workers, rural backyard poultry
farmers, smallholder commercial
farmers, consumers of poultry, poultryrelated
business offi cials, religious
leaders and health and veterinary staff –
worked to establish an AI resource
center to provide updated information
and materials to NGOs and other stakeholders.
A network orientation for over
100 NGOs was held to develop a common
understanding and to help coordinate
efforts. The network also provided
training on IPC skills in four-high-risk
districts and instructed over 500 fi eld
resource staff on creating AI awareness
at the grassroots level.