Resolve to be Ready in 2008
Residents Urged to Prepare for Disasters
2008 PREPAREDNESSARTICLE SERIES - FOUR

Previously we talked about pandemic influenza and how it might develop and spread. Today, let's look at some specific steps that we can take to prepare.

If a pandemic were to occur, experts estimate that up to 50% of our population could be affected. Think about the consequences of this rate of infection: half of all emergency workers, half of all healthcare workers, and half of all business employees would be unable to work. This would severely impact our hospitals, utility companies, banks, grocery stores and other businesses. Supplies of necessary items could be limited and our economy would be adversely affected.

This is the reason that we all need to take steps to be prepared for emergencies such as pandemic influenza. If hospitals and clinics are overwhelmed, we all will need an in-home care plan for our families. Decide who will be the primary caregiver and learn how to care for someone with the flu. Choose an area in your home where you can isolate the ill person(s) from the rest of your family.

Get a supply of supportive therapy medicines for symptoms such as fever, diarrhea, upset stomach, pain, and cough. Over-the-counter medicines that you generally use are good for most of these symptoms. If you are not sure about what you need, you can ask your pharmacist for assistance. Also include latex gloves, masks, tissues, trash bags, a thermometer and disinfecting cleaning supplies. A solution of bleach and water is a good germ killer and cleaner.

Earlier we talked about an emergency kit with basic supplies. You should have one gallon of water per day for each person. It is important to keep influenza patients hydrated. You may choose to give him or her sports drinks to replace lost electrolytes. Clear broth soups and bland foods may be all that the patient can tolerate. Make sure that you have some on hand.

Clean personal items and linens frequently, making sure to wash your hands often to limit the spread of illness. Caregivers will need to eat healthy and get plenty of rest to remain well.

More preparedness information is available at your local health department, Emergency Management Agency office or these websites:
www.ready.gov
www.phdistrict2.org
www.health.state.ga.us
www.pandemicflu.gov
www.fema.gov
www.redcross.org