How to Prepare for a Pandemic

The Center for Disease Control states that “Pandemics happen when new (novel) influenza A viruses emerge which are able to infect people easily and spread from person to person in an efficient and sustained way. Because the virus is new to humans, very few people will have immunity against the pandemic virus, and a vaccine might not be widely available.”(1)

So how do we prepare for a pandemic and ensure that our loved ones will be safe?

1. Prepare a Plan

When a pandemic strikes, confusion and fear are often as dangerous as the pandemic itself. Benjamin Franklin said: “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Eliminate this problem by creating a plan for you and your family members. This will help eliminate fear and allow you to respond more quickly should something happen.

2. Prepare Supplies

Be better prepared for emergencies, such as a pandemic, by gathering at least a two-week supply of the necessary items to survive within your home for two weeks. These items should include the following:

1. Water – 3 – 5 gallons per person per day. This allows you to have water for drinking, washing and rehydrating/cooking food.
2. Food – See our article “The 4 Types of Food Storage – Know your Options” https://waterprepared.com/blogs/news/the-4-types-of-food-storage-know-your-options
3. A first aid kit including prescription and nonprescription medicine that your family uses on a regular basis. Other necessary items in your medical kit include: pain relievers, stomach remedies, cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes and vitamins.
4. Copies of medical records for personal reference.
5. Cleaning supplies – disinfectant cleaning supplies such as bleach, hand and bath soap, and disinfectant sprays.
6. Flashlights, candles, batteries

3. If There is a Pandemic

If a disease does breakout, limit the spread of germs and keep yourself healthy by doing the following:

1. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
2. If you are sick, prevent others from getting sick by keeping your distance.
3. Use sanitary practices such as washing your hands often, covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing and avoid touching your eyes nose and mouth.

1) “Pandemic Basics.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3 Nov. 2016, www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic-resources/basics/index.html.