Disaster Response United States Project #46138

Information Saves Lives: COVID-19 Response Fund

by Internews

Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic left journalists and media houses around the world scrambling to produce health stories and content that would better serve their audiences, and ultimately provide information that could have the power to save lives. In response, Internews' Health Journalism Network strives to build health reporting capacity, support creative and solutions-based health stories, and foster relationships between members around the world and between members and public health experts.

$100,000
total goal

$38,907
remaining

29
donors

0
monthly donors

3
years

Challenge

Every disease outbreak is accompanied by rumors and misinformation. The proliferation of smartphones and access to digital media has contributed to the spread of inaccurate or unverified health information. This was especially evident during the COVID-19 global pandemic, which was accompanied by a massive 'infodemic' (an over-abundance of information) making it hard for people to find trustworthy sources and reliable guidance in a language they understand and relevant to their local context.

Solution

We strive to improve the quality of health journalism worldwide, counter misinformation in health and expand coverage of under-reported health topics. We both connect health journalists worldwide and build health journalism networks where there are none and in languages that resonate locally. Furthermore, our efforts provide journalists, health communicators, health focused civil society organizations and advocacy groups with up to date, reliable and factual health information resources.

Long-Term Impact

At times uncertainty and alarm, journalists are on the frontlines giving us the facts. Funds raised will allow the Internews Health Journalism Network to continue to grow and increase its reach, further supporting the building of health reporting capacity and skills in marginalized and vulnerable communities globally. The Health Journalism Network equips media professionals and communicators on a community level with the necessary tools to navigate all stages of current and future health crises.