How to Safeguard Against Flu and Pandmic Flu

Posted By: ethernum; Category: Health; November 2, 2008

Author ethernum;

Seasonal flu comes every year, spreading in areas where people interact, such as schools, businesses, transportation, and entertainment. A pandemic flu does not happen often, but when it does occur, it is a serious disease that spreads around the world. Health experts tell us that the virus causing bird flu (also called avian influenza) could change and begin spreading easily among people. If this change were to happen, it would start a pandemic, and many people would become sick.

Pandemic flu initially looks a lot like seasonal flu (fever, cough, runny nose, and muscle pain) but it becomes much worse. Because pandemic flu is caused by a completely new flu virus that no one has had before, no one has the natural defenses to fight it off. Even healthy people become ill during a pandemic, and they can develop severe complications like pneumonia.

Health experts believe large numbers of people will become very ill and die in a pandemic--including people we rely on every day--such as teachers, police officers, and utility workers. Doctors and nurses will also get sick and will not be able to take care of their patients. This situation would have a big impact on normal life in our communities.

As a service to our customers and all California employers and workers, State Fund is providing information on how to prepare for both seasonal and pandemic flu. The lists shown next offer simple ways you can start now to prepare and protect yourself, your family, and others.

To protect against the flu and spreading disease:

1

Start healthy habits for yourself and your family:

Get an annual flu shot.
Cover each cough.
Wash hands often--each time for 20 seconds, with soap and warm water.
Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or disinfecting wipes to help kill germs at home and at work.
Stay home when sick.

2

In addition, for pandemic flu:

Build an emergency kit (a supply for 1 to 2 weeks):
Water—1 gallon per person per day.
Food—canned or dry, packaged items that are ready to eat.
Formula or baby food in cans or jars.
Pet food.
Medications.
First-aid kit.
Household products (such as soap, tissues, toilet paper, disposable diapers).
Other supplies (portable radio, batteries, flashlight, blankets).
Have an emergency plan.
Avoid large crowds.
Arrange for child care if schools are closed or if you are sick.
List important phone numbers of family, friends, neighbors, doctors, and others. Know where to find the list.
Volunteer with local groups to prepare for a pandemic flu.

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