Maldives Media Council has issued a handbook for journalists on safety and coverage entitled “COVID-19: Journalists’ Handbook”.

MMC said that the book aimed at journalists is endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is available in English as well.

The book consists of things to give a special attention while covering a pandemic ranging from safety, responsible journalism and overcoming psychological barriers to cleaning and disinfecting equipment.

WHO’s assigned Country Coordinator for the Maldives, Dr. Arvind Mathur, has a special message on the book calling on local journalists to present more scientific information on the illness and the stories of those affected by the illness and refrain from creating fear and publishing false information and news.

He also said that a joint effort, including journalists, could overcome this illness.

MMC that this book become a gift to Maldivian journalists working hard to bring information to the public and they are working to publish and distribute the book to journalists, free of charge.