Crisis Communications for Public Health

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Guide: Crisis Communications for Public Health

Step-by-Step Guidance for Planning & Response

This guide was created for the APHA Affiliates (State and regional public health associations) in response to the current (2026) public health landscape. However, the guide may be applicable to other public health nonprofit or governmental agencies. It is not meant to be exhaustive or prescriptive. You know your organization, partners, and the community you collectively serve best. Use this information to help develop a plan and approach that’s right for your association’s unique needs.

View the Guide

Guide Sections

Introduction

A public health crisis is an event or situation that has the potential to put many people’s health at risk, physically or emotionally. 

After: Evaluate and Update the Plan

Once the crisis is over, you’re done, right? Wrong! This is an opportunity to improve your plans and update potential scenarios and messaging.

Further Reading