KNCDC Trains Media on Emergency Risk Communication
By Pulse Time Nigeria
The Kano State Centre for Disease Control (KNCDC) has trained journalists on emergency risk communication , aimed at improving accurate health reporting and combating misinformation during public health emergencies.
Speaking during the opening of the workshop the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, cautioned journalists against reporting outbreak updates without official confirmation, stressing that such information should only be published after clearance by health authorities or confirmation from his office.
“I want to clearly advise journalists to avoid publishing outbreak updates until there is an official release from the health authorities or confirmation from my office, because unverified reports can create fear, confusion and panic among the public,” Dr. Yusuf said.
He also urged journalists to focus more on reporting the importance of routine immunisation, describing it as one of the most effective ways to prevent disease outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.
“Routine immunisation saves lives, and the media must consistently educate communities on its importance if we are serious about preventing avoidable outbreaks,” the Commissioner added.
Dr. Yusuf noted that responsible, people-centred health reporting would strengthen public trust in government interventions and improve community compliance with preventive measures.
In his remarks, the Director-General of KNCDC, Prof. Muhammad Abbas, said the training was designed to equip journalists with the skills required to report health emergencies accurately, responsibly and ethically.
“Emergency risk communication is not just about releasing information; it is about releasing accurate, verified and timely information that the public can understand and trust,” Prof. Abbas said.
He emphasized that strong partnership between the media and KNCDC is critical, especially during outbreaks when misinformation can spread faster than verified facts.
“When journalists and health authorities work together, we can reduce panic, counter rumours and help communities take the right actions to protect their health,” he added.
Prof. Abbas further assured participants of KNCDC’s commitment to improving media engagement through regular briefings, designated spokespersons and timely information sharing during emergencies.
Facilitators at the workshop explained that information gaps during health emergencies often worsen situations, as rumours and false narratives quickly fill the vacuum created by delayed communication.
They stressed that effective emergency communication must be early, transparent and empathetic, while addressing public concerns and guiding communities on what actions to take.
Journalists were also trained on best practices for emergency reporting, including source verification, responsible use of outbreak data and avoiding sensational headlines that could trigger panic.
The workshop held in Hotel 17 Kaduna state brought together journalists from print, broadcast and digital media organisations across Kano State to strengthen collaboration between the media and health authorities in managing disease outbreaks and other health-related crises.