Pandemic Influenza will affect an estimated 35% of the population.

A pandemic influenza outbreak is expected to affect the flow of the services and supplies that we routinely count on. Many will become seriously ill. Normal daily routines will be altered as businesses begin to close or operate with limited staffing.

Individuals and families may be expected to take care of themselves and their families for quite a while. Because you may not have access to normal services and supplies, it is a good idea to put together an emergency preparedness kit.

Items to put in your kit include:

1. At least a 2-week supply of food for you and your family that is non-perishable and does not need to be refrigerated. You will want a good selection of canned as well as dried foods.
2. Household items, such as a manual can-opener, flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, extra blankets, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products.
3. Contact information for family members and friends, health care providers, local hospitals, and the local health department.
4. A supply of over-the-counter medicines, such as fever reducers and pain relievers, and any prescription medicines that you or your family need on a daily basis. This may include allergy medication or medicines treating chronic conditions.
5. Medical supplies including thermometers, plastic gloves, and surgical masks. These may be useful if you are taking care of sick family members.
6. Disinfectants, such as soap, alcohol-based hand sanitizer, or a solution of chlorine bleach and water.

Homemade Oral Rehydration Solution
Mix together 1 teaspoon salt, 8 teaspoons sugar, and 1 liter of water.

Sanitizing Solution for Surfaces
Mix 1 tablespoon of bleach with 1 gallon of warm water.

Additional Resources

• Pan Flu Idaho
• CDC: Emergency Preparedness and Response
• CDC: Pandemic Flu
• Preparedness for Citizens with Special Needs

Contact

Contact information for Pandemic Flu