In the past, pandemic flu has been a new and highly contagious virus that has spread world wide. Because no one has been previously exposed to the particular strain and no vaccine is ready, pandemic flu can result in high infection and death rates. Paramus Health Officer John Hopper reminds us that there are some simple steps we can take to be ready for this uncommon event:
• Store a two-week supply of bottled water and non-perishable food. If you are unable to get to a supermarket, if suppliers are unable to keep the store shelves stocked or if you are too ill to cook you will continue to be able to provide simple meals. Examples of foods that store well and need no refrigeration are canned fish and meat, canned soups, crackers, peanut butter, dry cereal, dried fruits, nuts and canned juices.
• If necessary store baby formula, jars of baby food and pet food.
• Keep a fresh supply of non-prescription drugs and medical supplies like pain and fever relievers, cold and cough medicines, a thermometer and anti-diarrheal medication on hand. Gatorade and Pedialyte can prevent dehydration and restore needed electrolytes.
• Check your prescription medications to be sure that you have a continuous supply.
• Have emergency supplies ready and in working order: batteries, portable radio, flashlights, manual can opener, garbage bags, and paper products such as tissues, toilet paper and paper towels.
• Maintain a list of emergency contacts including relatives (cell and work numbers), physician, pharmacists, local hospitals, schools, employers and health departments.
• To prevent the spread of disease, teach family members to wash their hands frequently with soap and hot water for at least 20 seconds. Teach them to cover their coughs and sneezes with their arm. Toss used tissues directly into the garbage and wash hands or use alcohol-based hand cleaner afterwards. Sanitize counters, phones and doorknobs with one teaspoon of bleach in one gallon of water.
• Stay home if you are sick.
For further information on pandemic flu preparedness, contact the Paramus Health Department at 201 265-2100 Ext. 755.
Comments (0)
Greater Paramus News and Lifestyle Magazine
http://www.paramuspost.com/article.php/20061221111829535