Pre-planning and preparations in response to virus epidemics or other disasters affecting our region

June 17 2021 Following-up 17 months later....am preparing emergency disaster kits for all 24/7 clients to any number of possible disasters. Today I mostly worry about the electricity going out for extended periods of time due to any one of a number of causes. It's not terribly expensive and could save a life. Some years ago we did evacuate two clients (with their two caregivers) including oxygen compressor and all to our home for 2 nights 3 days due to fire. It felt wonderful to have had such an elegant option--was like a mini-vacation in many respects. Anyway, BE PREPARED.

Thought it would be a good idea to post the following from the San Diego County Disaster Preparedness office regarding Pandemic. Their information is related to the flu virus, but general precautions would be applicable to any virus threat.

Pandemic https://www.readysandiego.org/content/oesready/en-us/pandemic.html

📷Pandemic Facts

An influenza pandemic is a global outbreak of disease that occurs when a new influenza A virus emerges in the human population, causes serious illness, and then spreads easily from person to person worldwide.

Avian (or bird) flu is caused by influenza viruses that occur naturally among wild birds. The H5N1 variant is deadly to domestic fowl and can be transmitted from birds to humans.

Pandemic flu is virulent human flu that causes a global outbreak, or pandemic, of serious illness. Because there is little natural immunity, the disease can spread easily from person to person. There is currently no pandemic flu.

Pandemic Preparedness

The best thing that you can do is educate yourself about what an influenza pandemic is and what it is not. The related links can provide you with vital information and resources to help you learn about and prepare for an influenza pandemic.

Make Good Hygiene a Habit

Wash hands frequently with soap and water Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze Put used tissues in a waste basket Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve if you don’t have a tissue Clean your hands after coughing or sneezing Use soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner Stay at home if you are sick

Should I be stockpiling?

The federal government is urging Americans to stockpile non-perishable food and medicine in an effort to prepare for what officials warn could be widespread disruptions in the event of an influenza pandemic.

The US Department of Health and Human Services recommends a two-week supply of food and drinking water and a supply of non-prescription drugs for an extended stay at home.

Having a small number of battery powered devices (flashlights, radio) to deal with a potential interruption to electricity service is a prudent planning measure that could be used in a host of other situations. Ensure you have a supply of batteries as well; consider rechargeable batteries and a solar charger that allows you to use the same batteries over and over again.

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Pandemic Links

CDC.gov/flu 📷 PandemicFlu.gov 📷 World Health Organization 📷 Centers for Disease Control 📷

I think this should be worked on now for preparedness efforts. I would stock up on universal precaution items and store them now in the office and in the client homes - I would also have supplies in the caregivers possession as well such as a safety kit. Perhaps we as a group can come together and put some together for examples to our members each member can take one to replicate.