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Pandemic Flu Resources for Individuals and Families

Public health officials recommend that every family have an emergency preparedness plan so you are better prepared to react during a crisis such as a severe pandemic flu. While there is no way to predict what will happen, or what your personal circumstances will be, there are simple things you can do now to prepare yourself and your loved ones.

As you plan, it is important to think about the challenges that you might face. These could include:

  • Disruption of such services as hospitals and other health-care facilities, banks, stores, restaurants, government offices, and post offices;
  • Cancellation of public gatherings, such as volunteer meetings and worship services; and
  • The need to care for people with special needs if the services they rely on are not available.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security have created checklists, forms, and guidelines to help you plan and prepare for a pandemic flu. You can access those materials by clicking on these links:

What else can you do?

Good hygiene is an effective defense against viruses such as influenza. In the event of a pandemic flu, you can help protect yourself and others by:

  • Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing;
  • Washing your hands thoroughly and often;
  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth; and
  • Staying home when you are sick.

Click here for more information about healthy habits that can help keep you well.

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Page last updated: 07/12/2006