http://www.avianflu.aed.org/
Beginning in 2005, the AED Center for Global Health Communication and Marketing worked under two TASC2 Media IQC task orders to help combat Avian Influenza (AI) in Southeast Asia. The Center assisted the USAID Missions in Vietnam, Cambodia and Lao PDR to develop and implement behavior change communication activities related to prevention and control of avian flu, as well as outbreak response in those countries. This involved a multi-channel effort in partnership with FAO and a team of international and Southeast Asian regional partners to create awareness among small farmers of AI risk behaviors, practical preventive measures, and appropriate responses to animal or human cases. It also led to the creation of an unlikely AI prevention spokesperson, “SuperChicken.” The “spokesbird” was called “SuperMoan” in Cambodia, where he was created during an AED workshop with government officials. SuperMoan, a broad-breasted rooster with a familiar red cape and strong opinions about healthy behaviors, appeared in public service announcements, on posters, and in booklets where he demonstrated the “hows” to preventing the avian influenza virus from appearing and spreading.
From there, the Super Chicken image was adapted in Laos with a slightly different look. Part chicken and part human, “Super Kai” served as a credible source of good behaviors and best practices to stop the spread of the bird flu virus. Super Kai and Super Moan also appeared in documentaries, on stage with street theater groups, and at water festivals and other events. They will continue to appear in community-based activities and events in both Cambodia and Laos. To watch the TV ads, starring Super Chicken, and see other communication materials on avian influenza, visit www.avianflu.aed.org.
Environmental Health,
Infectious Diseases,
Avian and Pandemic Flu.
Advocacy / Policy Change,
Behavior Change Communication,
Community Mobilization,
Commercial & Private Sector Partnerships.
Project Director
Mark Rasmuson
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