Pandemic Flu

Find flu pandemic preparation tips to help protect your home and your family
In April 2009, the World Health Organization reported 38 cases of the H1N1 influenza virus. A month later, the number ballooned to 11,000. This pandemic outbreak has killed thousands of people since its inception, so it’s important to help protect your family with these flu pandemic preparation tips.

Stay well with good health and hygiene
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services recommends you follow this pandemic flu protection advice to stay healthy:

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
Stay home if you are sick until at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100°F or 37.8°C) or signs of a fever (without the use of a fever-reducing medicine).
Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
Plan ahead
For extra pandemic flu preparedness, follow these tips to be ready if the pandemic flu reaches your area:

Store a two-week supply of food and water in your home.
Have nonprescription drugs on hand such as pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes and vitamins.
Exercise on a regular basis, eat a balanced diet and get plenty of sleep to keep generally healthy.
Know your family's medical history. During a flu pandemic, makeshift medical offices may open. Having your information on hand can help you get the most effective treatment.
Find out if you can work from home if you’re not feeling well.
Ask what your children's schools or your work will do in the event that the pandemic worsens.
Plan for a loss of income if your work is temporarily shut down
Keep cash close by as ATMs and banks might close.
Schools and other activities may be closed and canceled for kids. Provide activities for them to do at home to keep them entertained.
This information is meant to help you make decisions that may reduce your risk. Of course, we can't note every possible risk, and we can't guarantee that these tips will work for you. However, we hope that if you use some of them, you'll better protect your family and yourself.