You can prepare for an influenza pandemic now. You should know both
the magnitude of what can happen during a pandemic outbreak and
what actions you can take to help lessen the impact of an influenza
pandemic on you and your family. This checklist will help you gather
the information and resources you may need in case of a flu pandemic.
Plan for a pandemic:
- Store a two week supply of water and food. During a pandemic,
if you cannot get to a store, or if stores are out of supplies,
it will be important for you to have extra supplies on hand. This
can be useful in other types of emergencies, such as power outages
and disasters.
- Periodically check your regular prescription drugs to ensure
a continuous supply in your home.
- Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on
hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold
medicines, fluids with electrolytes, and vitamins.
- Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would
be cared for if they got sick, or what will be needed to care
for them in your home.
- Volunteer with local groups to prepare and assist with emergency
response.
- Get involved in your community as it works to prepare for an
influenza pandemic.
Limit the spread of germs and prevent infection:
- Avoid close contact.
- Avoid close
contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep
your distance from others to protect them from getting sick
too.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- If possible,
stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick.
You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
- Cover your mouth and nose.
- Cover your
mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It
may prevent those around you from getting sick.
- Clean your hands.
- Washing
your hands often will help protect you from germs.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Germs are
often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated
with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Practice other good health habits.
- Get plenty
of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink
plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
Printable Materials for Promoting Good Health Habits
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
More Information
For more information on preparing for and responding to an influenza
pandemic visit the U.S Department of Health and Human Service's
website at www.pandemicflu.gov.
|
