Prepare for Pandemic

Prepare for a pandemic. Learn how to prepare for and respond to a pandemic.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Center for Disease Control (CDC) provide the following advice to help you and your family prepare for a pandemic:

How to Prepare for a Pandemic

  • Learn how diseases spread to help protect yourself and others. Viruses can be spread from person to person, from a non-living object to a person and by people who are infected but don’t have any symptoms.
  • Prepare for the possibility of schools, workplaces and community centers being closed. Investigate and prepare for virtual coordination for school, work (telework) and social activities.
  • Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days or weeks. Supplies may include cleaning supplies, non-perishable foods, prescriptions and bottled water. Buy supplies slowly to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to buy what they need.
  • Create an emergency plan so that you and your family know what to do and what you will need in case an outbreak happens. Consider how a pandemic may affect your plans for other emergencies.
  •  Review your health insurance policies to understand what they cover, including telemedicine options.
  •  Create password-protected digital copies of important documents and store in a safe place. Watch out for scams and fraud.

Before a Pandemic

  • Store a two week supply of water and food.
  • Periodically check your regular prescription drugs to ensure a continuous supply in your home.
  • Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes, and vitamins.
  • Get copies and maintain electronic versions of health records from doctors, hospitals, pharmacies and other sources and store them, for personal reference. Get help accessing electronic health records.
  • 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.

When a Pandemic is Declared

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Keep a distance of at least six feet between yourself and people who are not part of your household.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when in public.
  • Clean and disinfect high-touch objects and surfaces.
  • Stay at home as much as possible to prevent the spread of disease.
  • Follow the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Limit the Spread of Germs and Prevent Infection

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
  • Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Stay Informed

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