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.
To plan for a pandemic:
-
Store a 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.
-
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.
To limit the spread of germs and prevent infection:
-
Teach your children to
wash hands frequently with soap and water, and model the correct behavior.
-
Teach your children to
cover coughs and sneezes with tissues, and be sure to model that behavior.
-
Teach your children to
stay away from others as much as possible if they are sick. Stay home from
work and school if sick.
Items to have on hand for an extended stay at home:
