5 tools and resources for COVID-19 reporting

With recent research showing the pandemic could become endemic, there’s no letting up for journalists when it comes to providing accurate and timely COVID-19 coverage for audiences. From the Delta and Delta Plus variant to the vaccine race, the latest rise in coronavirus cases means reporters need to continue to stay on top of the latest research and information to report responsibly and not amplify any uncertainty. To support journalists in their coverage, Advocacy Assembly has assembled a list of useful tools and resources to help you continue to cover COVID-19. 

1. Vaccine Education Toolkit - If you’re reporting on vaccine distribution, use the Vaccine Education Toolkit  — developed by the National Association of Broadcasters in conjunction with the Reynolds Journalism Institute. The toolkit can be used to find data, b-roll, diverse export sources and a collection of other resources.

2. COVID-19 Diverse Sources by Category - There’s never been a more important time to ensure your sources come from different parts of society. This NPR database is divided into 13 major categories. Each column is a separate category to help you in your reporting.

3. ONA: COVID-19 Misinformation Playbook - Misinformation continues to be problematic for governments trying to bring down case numbers and deaths. ONA developed a misinformation playbook to help guide you through this uncertainty.

4. COVID-19: How to include marginalised and vulnerable people in risk communication and community engagement - These guidelines developed by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs should be a useful resource for journalists looking to unearth cover untold stories during this pandemic.

5. UNESCO and RSF's Safety guide for journalists - A handbook for reporters in high-risk environments aims at providing guidelines and practical advice for all those who risk their lives to bring information to the public. The handbook includes a chapter on safety precautions for journalists when covering epidemics.

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