A history of influenza messaging that drives real results
Vaccination messaging for a changing time — delivering consistent, record-breaking numbers with a low-barrier PSA campaign series
The Challege
With a rich history and partnership, the influenza vaccination campaign presented unique opportunities over the course of 10+ years in collaboration with SDDOH. Continuously reinventing itself to evolving sentiments, it took an eye for what truly makes an individual make a decision against their better judgment and their health outcomes. Taking this into account and focusing on the lowest-hanging fruit of potential immunizers, our campaign concepts always leaned into the notion that half the battle with a seasonal flu vaccination is inconvenience, while the other lies in complacency.
The Solution
With such a lengthy tenure on the account, Epicosity was able to create a long-standing reputation amongst national departments of health as South Dakota having a high rate of vaccination and awareness of influenza prevention. Beginning with the initial “Stopping the Flu Starts With You” campaign thru to its many phases of evolution over the years, South Dakota DOH was able to deliver a message that’s vital, effective and received in earnest.
'Not today, Flu Bug' Billboard
The Work
Our years-long relationship with South Dakota Department of Health helped to create a series of campaigns that captured noticeable mindshare of the state at large. We developed the “Flu Bug” character that at one point was more recognizable to citizens statewide than some elected officials. And our subsequent “Do the Math” and “Do You” evolutions helped to cater to a changing audience year after year.
The campaign concept “Do You. Not the Flu.” balances levity with authenticity, tapping into what compels someone to take the risk of catching influenza, rather than making the very low-maintenance step of getting a shot, including eye-catching outdoor advertising, compelling split-screen video content and relatable, familiar messaging.
2:18 'Flu Tour' Video
Flu Bug Character Photography

Flu Bug Character Photography

Flu Bug Character Photography

0:30 'Flu bug COVID' Video
0:30 'Do the Math' Video
0:15 'Do You. Not the Flu.' Video
'Do the math' Meta Ads

'Do You. Not the Flu.' Billboard

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