Which statement about communicating with clients about an FMD outbreak is advisable?

Which statement about communicating with clients about an FMD outbreak is advisable?

• A. Let your client know what you know, what you don't know, and what you are doing to find answers
• B. Assure them that everything will be alright immediately
• C. Refuse to share any information until there is full certainty
• D. Only share data after it is published in a scientific journal

Answer: (A)

When communicating during an FMD outbreak, openness about knowledge gaps and a clear plan for finding answers is essential. The best approach is to tell the client what you know, what you don’t know, and what you are doing to find answers. This keeps information accurate and current, builds trust, and helps clients make informed decisions in a fast-changing situation. It also sets realistic expectations and demonstrates that you are actively managing the outbreak, rather than offering premature assurances or withholding information. Why this works well: outbreaks evolve quickly, and uncertainty is normal. Sharing what is known and unknown, along with concrete steps being taken to obtain more information, helps clients assess risk, plan actions, and maintain appropriate biosecurity and compliance. Waiting for absolute certainty before communicating can stall decision-making and erode confidence. Delaying information until it’s published in a journal is too slow for crisis management and may miss critical updates. So, the most advisable practice is transparent, ongoing updates that include current knowledge, gaps, and the actions underway to obtain more information.

When communicating during an FMD outbreak, openness about knowledge gaps and a clear plan for finding answers is essential. The best approach is to tell the client what you know, what you don’t know, and what you are doing to find answers. This keeps information accurate and current, builds trust, and helps clients make informed decisions in a fast-changing situation. It also sets realistic expectations and demonstrates that you are actively managing the outbreak, rather than offering premature assurances or withholding information.

Why this works well: outbreaks evolve quickly, and uncertainty is normal. Sharing what is known and unknown, along with concrete steps being taken to obtain more information, helps clients assess risk, plan actions, and maintain appropriate biosecurity and compliance. Waiting for absolute certainty before communicating can stall decision-making and erode confidence. Delaying information until it’s published in a journal is too slow for crisis management and may miss critical updates. So, the most advisable practice is transparent, ongoing updates that include current knowledge, gaps, and the actions underway to obtain more information.