by Alexis Cala, PICurrent Assistant Producer
As the world continues to buzz about swine flu cases, many are wondering: what can I do?
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other organizations are still watching this outbreak very closely, there are steps you can take to prevent illness and avoid last minute emergencies. In the event that an influenza pandemic, or flu outbreak, does occur in your community, it’s important that you know how to protect yourself and loved ones.
To plan for an emergency, PandemicFlu.gov offers a lot of information, including these important tips:
- Talk with family members about your emergency plan and practice what to do in the case of an emergency.
- Store at least a two week supply of water and food. During a pandemic, you may not be able to get to a store, it’s important you have extra supplies.
Our sister site, The Beehive, has Five Health Tips to Avoid Swine Flu.
There are items you could be stocking up on to prepare for an emergency now or in the future.
Creating an emergency kit can help you prepare for the unexpected. Some items to include are:
- N95 masks and Nitrile Disposable gloves
- A first aid kit
- Candles, flashlights, matches and lighters
- Batteries: make sure you know the kind you will need.
- Don’t forget to call your doctor to renew prescriptions and have nonprescription drugs on hand: pain relievers, stomach remedies, cold medicines, etc.
You may also want to purchase the following:
- Tools; duct tape; rope
- Water purification tablets
- Battery-operated radio
- Stock up on extra gas. Fill any portable gas
containers you may have or you can buy one at the gas station.
Stay informed about what’s going on in your area.
Being prepared can help you and your family react quickly and safely should the need arise. You can keep up with local updates and important information about swine flu by visiting the following sites:
- Visit www.pandemicflu.gov for national and international updates.
- Check the internet, radio, and television for news and information about the pandemic flu.
- Our sister site, The Beehive, has more information and resources for swine flu and how to get prepared.
- Find out about state and federal planning and check your state’s pandemic plan, here.
Check out our previous post, Swine Flu: No Cause for Panic, Just Preparation, to learn more about what Congress and President Obama are doing.
For even more:
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