Train. Monitor. Respond.
We're decreasing the impact of misinformation and increasing vaccination demand.
Led by UNICEF, the VDO trains infodemic managers to monitor misinformation and respond with evidence-based communication strategies.
Our unique approach
The VDO provides three key services that work in concert: (1) identifying misinformation and information gaps; (2) responding to misinformation with the Vaccine Acceptance Interventions Lab (VAIL); and (3) training and technical assistance.
Identifying misinformation and information gaps
Throughout the world, the majority of misinformation spreading in communities does not appear in media monitoring systems used by global fact-checkers.
The VDO aggregates UNICEF’s existing community reporting tools—including surveys, field reports, and local media sources not included in any existing global media monitoring system—into a single system. This system is built to support individual countries’ immunization programs and risk communications and community engagement task forces.
By centralizing global and country-level insights, the VDO enables communities to address vaccine misinformation and boost vaccination demand.
Responding to misinformation with strategic communications
The Vaccine Acceptance Interventions Lab (VAIL) prioritizes action-oriented research to respond to misinformation.
VAIL develops and tests communications across multiple countries and populations and then shares findings through the VDO with UNICEF Country Offices and their partners and in peer-reviewed publications.
VAIL facilitates country-level research, including process and outcome evaluations throughout the year. UNICEF Country Offices play an active role in these studies, sharing their local expertise globally.
VAIL also prioritizes rapid response communications. When information gaps or misinformation is reported to the VDO, VAIL provides strategic communication guidance, including suggested risk communications tailored to national and local contexts. VAIL also provides communication materials, such as video, images, and text, that are freely available.
Training and technical assistance
The VDO provides ongoing training and technical assistance to Country Offices, partners, and stakeholders.
Technical assistance includes continued support with media monitoring programs, data sharing, and other technical aspects of the VDO.
