"The new coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can spread rapidly and cause a lot of harm. But if communities respond appropriately and quickly, it is possible to limit its spread and the damage it causes. Mass media and communication have an absolutely vital role to play in this effort. Media can: provide audiences with crucial information on how to stay safe and help prevent the spread of the coronavirus; keep people up to date on the support services available and how to access them; counter dangerous rumours and incorrect information; hold authorities to account over their responsibility to protect the population; provide a platform for those affected or at risk to raise their concerns and needs, ask questions, and explore solutions; reassure and motivate people to help themselves and others. BBC Media Action has developed this handbook to help media support their audiences to face this health emergency." (Introduction)