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National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

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Preparing for Pandemic Flu

Being prepared can give you peace of mind and confidence during a pandemic. It can help you, your family, and community cope more easily. You and your community can take actions that can help delay or reduce the impact of a pandemic.

  • Stock up. Have at least a two week supply of food and water. Get foods that are nonperishable, ready to eat, and need little to no water to prepare.
  • Check health care supplies. Have two weeks or more of medications and other supplies. Be sure to renew prescriptions if necessary.
  • Plan home care for flu. Have a thermometer, plenty of liquids and drinks to keep hydrated, alcohol hand rub or soaps, blankets, facemasks, disposable gloves, and other necessary items.
  • Talk with family about your plans for pandemics and other emergencies.
  • Ask about and prepare for working from home.
  • Know school plans and consider home learning activities for children.
  • Work with neighbors, share emergency contacts. The elderly, people who live alone, and those with disabilities may need special help.
  • Get involved in planning and preparedness in your community. Contact your public health department, neighborhood association, or faith-based organization.

The VA, all levels of government, and others are taking steps to plan and prepare for pandemic flu. Read VA’s pandemic influenza plan.

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