Hill+Knowlton Strategies (H+K) is providing strategic communications counsel to 19 To Zero, a dedicated coalition of academics, public health experts, behavioural economists, and creative professionals working to understand, engage with, and ultimately shift public perceptions around COVID-19 behaviours and vaccination.

“H+K is a strong partner given their deep understanding of Canada’s health system and its stakeholders, with a breadth of experience working within the COVID-19 landscape and building trust in science,” said 19 To Zero co-chair Dr. Jia Hu – a public health physician and clinical assistant professor at the University of Calgary. “Like our coalition, they bring a multi-disciplinary approach to tackle challenges from all angles.”

Throughout the pandemic, H+K has worked with both public and private organizations across the health sector to navigate public relations and public affairs challenges in a quickly changing landscape. H+K supported public affairs initiatives to ensure front line workers can access personal protective equipment, long-term care residents are protected, and widespread testing is available to Canadians.

In addition to the 19 To Zero initiative, H+K provided support to FERO International with their innovative field hospitals and mobile ICUs for COVID-19 care. And looking ahead, the team will be working with Immunize Canada to ensure continued uptake of influenza vaccines this year.

“Our team has seen a growing focus from clients on campaigns that change perceptions and behaviour as we continue to grapple with the pandemic. Leveraging our in-house behavioural science team, we can maximize the impact of our work by applying the science of human behaviour to the art of communications,” said Michelle McLean, H+K Senior Vice President and National Health + Wellness Sector Lead. “We’re proud of our contribution to and collaboration with 19 To Zero. The coalition’s efforts will save lives.”

About Hill+Knowlton Strategies

Hill+Knowlton Strategies Canada (H+K) is a public relations and public affairs consultancy providing services to local, multinational and global clients from its eight offices across the country.

H+K works with clients to solve complex communications challenges and build long-term, sustainable and shared business value by driving growth, building reputation and protecting against risk.

H+K offers deep sector knowledge in health + wellness, technology, government + public sector, energy + industrials, consumer packaged goods, financial + professional services, food + drink, retail + leisure and sports.

Globally, Hill+Knowlton Strategies Inc., has offices in more than 40 countries as well as an extensive associate network; and it is a member of WPP (NASDAQ: WPPGY), one of the world’s largest communications services groups.