As soon as the H5N1 virus can spread from one person to another, we will probably have a pandemic on our hands. There is a slim chance the original human-to-human H5N1 outbreak can be contained by quarantine and other measures. But it's unlikely.
Once the World Health Organization has declared an pandemic, then an unprecedented level of government involvement in healthcare, commerce, and the private lives of individuals, will begin to take place.
You must be prepared to face: quarantine, and possibly martial law. I'm not kidding: these are well-publicized parts of the U.S. Federal Government's Pandemic Preparation Plans. Similar plans are being rehearsed in other developed countries.
You must also be prepared to face an uncertain access to food, water, phones, or even electricity, for an uncertain amount of time. You also need to be prepared for a certain amount of social and economic chaos.
Step 1
Food and water. Have enough food and water for as long as you expect you or you family might possibly be ill-- say, 10 days to several weeks worth. You may not want to go out during that period, or be able to.
You should also stock up against the possibility that a pandemic may bring on a run on local food stocks and bottled water. Experts suggest enough for one to three months (the period of time of the 1918 pandemic in the U.S.) for your entire family. Canned and dried foods are best. A water purifier is also a good idea.
Step 2
Healthcare. Healthcare services will be overwhelmed, and clinics or hospitals are probably the last place you want to go in a pandemic. Have a first aid kit large enough to handle
everyone in your family, should they become ill.
Step 3
Survival supplies. Lights, first aid kits, medicines, food, water, protection from social chaos and lawlessness. Consider purchasing:
Step 4
Money. Have cash on hand- enough for the possible duration of the emergency. Remember that many goods and services may become more expensive.
Step 5
Jobs. The work force may be devastated. Many people may not want to work around other people. Many may want to stay home to tend to sick family members.
Do not venture into public places, including work environments without proper masks, gloves, and disinfectant.
Step 6
Investments. At least consider the possibility of a serious global recession, and its impact on on your investments. A pandemic is likely to devastate the stock markets as well as puncturing the real estate bubble.
Step 7
Insurance. You might also consider adding some term life insurance Pick a blue chip company that is more likely to survive.
Step 8
Your will. Update your will, and sign a health care declaration (living will), with your wishes clearly laid out. Make sure your family, doctor and HMO have copies of the living will.
About the Author:
William Prescott is a health care researcher and author, focusing on science-based CAM (Complimentary and Alternative) healthcare solutions to contemporary medical challenges. |
