Individual & Family Planning
Emergency Planning
Checklist (PDF 48 KB)
What can I do now?
As in other emergencies, pandemic influenza could affect
everyday life. Schools and businesses might be closed, travel could be
limited, and there may be some shortages during an influenza pandemic. By
preparing now, you can help protect yourself and your family when a pandemic does
occur.
- Keep a supply of essential supplies at home (such as food, water,
medicine), as for any emergency.
- Volunteer with local organizations to
help in emergency response.
- Stay informed about pandemic influenza.
Following simple preventive steps will help keep all of us healthy from
“normal” flu and many other illnesses in our communities.
In general, it
is important to avoid close contact with people who are sick and to stay
home when you are sick. Washing your hands thoroughly and often; avoiding
touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; and covering your mouth and nose when
you cough or sneeze will also help protect you and reduce the spread of
disease.
What can I do if a pandemic occurs?
If an influenza pandemic occurs,
many of the precautions will be the same as mentioned above. However, some
additional considerations include contacting your health care provider if
you become sick, staying at home if you have been exposed to someone else
who is sick (even when you do not have symptoms), and avoiding large
crowds or gatherings.
In a pandemic, you would also be encouraged to be
aware of the most up-to-date information. Your local public health agency
will likely have additional prevention information or instructions that
may be helpful.
Should I get Tamiflu?
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is an antiviral medication
(PDF 100 KB) that is active against influenza A and B viruses. When taken
within the first 24-48 hours after onset of influenza symptoms, the
medication may shorten the duration if illness and decrease the severity
of illness. Tamiflu (oseltamivir) has never been used for the widespread
control of epidemics of influenza. It is not recommended that you obtain a
prescription of Tamiflu.
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Prevention Steps
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Always cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
- Wash your hands thoroughly and often.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Limit your time in crowds.
- Consider staying home if you have been near someone who was sick.
Where should I get additional information?
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This information has been compiled from resources
provided by the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov),
World Health Organization (www.who.int),
and the Department of Homeland Security (www.ready.gov).
Emergency Preparedness Program
Boulder County Public Health
3450 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304
(303) 413-7500
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