Rotary’s Covid billboards a big hit in Mangalore

A mega Covid awareness campaign titled ‘Let’s fight back together’ is being implemented by RC Mangalore, RID 3181, in partnership with the Indian Red Cross Society and the District Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka to sensitise the public on the right use of masks, handwash method and maintaining social distancing.

The anti-Covid campaign mounted on digital media and outdoor billboards is expected to reach at least two lakh of the six lakh population in this district, said Archibald Menezes, club president. Giant billboards were erected at strategic locations since July 25 and “we are confident the campaign will bring the required awareness,” he said.

A creative agency was roped in to design impactful messages with striking visuals. Many people were found using masks inappropriately. Wearing a mask in a scientific way by covering both the nose and mouth is imperative to control droplets that spread the virus. “We need to rise above our inconvenience to fight the virus,” said Menezes.

The billboards were presented in both English and Kannada, and the Rotary campaign, that trended on social media “has become the talk of the town, a good sign that it is being well-received by the people.” In all, 14 hoardings are on display. “Many business houses have shown interest in participating in this public awareness campaign,” he said, adding that he is hopeful that this campaign will play a key role in battling the pandemic.