The 2009 appearance of H1N1, or Swine Flu, reminded us all of the real possibility of a devastating flu pandemic in our lifetimes. Because of this, it is good to be prepared. Knowing what to do in advance as well as how to prepare can minimize or eliminate the personal risk of a flu pandemic to you and your family.
Here is what you need to know in order to be prepared.
A flu pandemic is one that occurs worldwide. It could be made up of any kind of flu, from seasonal flu to bird flu to H1N1 to another type of flu that hasn’t come into existence yet. There is really no way to predict when and where a pandemic will start, nor how severe it will be. The last flu pandemic occurred in 1968 and caused about 700,000 deaths worldwide. Ten years earlier, a pandemic caused 1-2 million deaths worldwide.
In a pandemic, it is highly likely that the need for a vaccine will outstrip the supply of the vaccine. We saw this with H1Ni, which fortunately, did not turn into a pandemic. Hospital beds and medical care would also be in short supply.
Should a pandemic occur, your safest place is usually isolated at home, if you don’t have any symptoms. Minimizing exposure to the virus is crucial. Therefore, you should be prepared to shelter in place. Have enough food, water, general medicine and other supplies. You may also want to have whatever equipment and supplies you would need in order to be able to work at home for a period of time.
If a pandemic should occur, you want to stay informed. Make sure that you have a ready source of information, through television, radio or the Internet. A weather alert radio is a smart idea to have on hand.
Practice healthy hygiene as part of your regular routine. Wash hands frequently, especially when you have been out, and teach children to do the same. Have supplies that will allow you to care for someone who is sick without infecting yourself or others. For example, make sure you have cleaning supplies and a way to sanitize utensils and common use items.
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