Steps you should take

To combat the spread of flu, you should take the usual steps associated with healthy living: eat a balanced diet, exercise daily, get enough rest and drink fluids. It’s also a good idea to get your seasonal flu shot.

In addition, you should:

• wash hands frequently using soap and water;
• cover coughs and sneezes with tissues; or cough or sneeze into your sleeve. Put used tissues in the trash and then wash your hands;
• avoid close contact with people who are sick; and,
• stay away from others as much as possible if you do get sick.

In the event of a pandemic, services and supplies we count on every day may not be available. Every individual and family could be on their own, without care, for extended periods. You should put together emergency supplies for your home, and make sure they are updated or freshened regularly. Some items to include:

• two week’s worth of food for you and your family. This should be food that does not need refrigeration--canned meats, beans, soups, fruits, and dry goods like flour, salt, and sugar.
• stored water in sealed, unbreakable containers. If water service is disrupted, plan on one gallon for each person for each day, for up to two weeks.
• two weeks worth of prescription medicines.
• ibuprofen or aspirin for fever and pain.
• hydration solution--for example, Pedialyte for children, Gatorade for adults and teens.
• cell phone charger.
• surgical masks and plastic gloves. These will help protect you, especially if you are taking care of family members who are sick with the disease.
• disinfectants and chlorine bleach.

You can get a complete list for making an Emergency Preparedness Plan and Kit from the American Red Cross. Visit their Web site at www.redcross.org.

Date last updated: December 20, 2005