Uncertainty in Risk Communication during outbreaks/epidemics/pandemics refers to

ambiguous or even missing information - which is often due to unavoidable technical

difficulties, (e.g. lack of specific laboratory detection kits when a novel pathogen

emerges), that hinder comprehensive epidemiologic investigations, especially in the

beginning of events, and is further aggravated by inefficiencies in communication

networks, and by sensationalism in the media.

It is a major issue for health care professionals and risk communicators, and it can be

A bacterial disease caused by infection with the bacterium Francisella tularensis, which

lives in wild and domestic animals, most often rabbits, and can be transmitted to

humans via contact with animal tissues, fleas, deerflies, or ticks. Hunters and other

people who spend much time outdoors may be exposed by direct contact with an

infected animal or carcass or by the bite of an infected flea or tick. Symptoms appear 2

to 10 days after exposure. Most often there is a red spot on the skin that enlarges and

The process of selecting for care or for treatment those of highest priority or, when

resources are limited, those who are more likely to benefit (from the French “Trier”: to

sort, choose).

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) defines transparency as a

process by which reliable, timely information about existing conditions, decisions and

actions relating to the activities of the organization is made accessible, visible and

understandable.(1)

Note: Transparency and accountability are interrelated and mutually reinforcing

concepts. Without transparency (unfettered access to timely and reliable information

on decisions and performance) it would be difficult to call public sector entities to