Assessing the role of the media in the prevention and control ofmeningitis in Nigeria

摘要

Nigeria has high numbers of meningitis cases and related fatalities almost everyyear. This study explored the role of the media in meningitis campaigns using adocumentary method of data gathering and analysis. The research objectives wereto determine if the media played a positive role in campaigns against meningitisoutbreaks in Nigeria and to determine the major obstacles to media coverage ofmeningitis outbreaks in Nigeria. The results revealed that the role of the mediain Nigeria during meningitis outbreaks is positive and supportive. However, paidadvertisements and announcements that support the media in health promotioncampaigns were undermined by limited understanding of infectious diseases bypoliticians and some media sponsors. Therefore, the authors recommend theestablishment of a permanent funded media structure charged with theresponsibility of grassroots campaigns against meningitis, and the integrationof the media into committees formed to combat the disease.