Pandemic Flu Preparation

What is Being Done to Prepare for a Flu Pandemic?

Education and outreach are critical to preparing for a pandemic. Understanding what a pandemic is, what needs to be done at all levels to prepare for pandemic influenza and what could happen during a pandemic helps us make informed decisions, both as individuals and as a nation. Should a pandemic occur, the public must be able to depend on its government to provide scientifically sound public health information quickly, openly and dependably.

Is Novant Health Prepared for A Flu Pandemic?

A team made up of key leaders from across Novant Health has been working on a Pandemic Preparedness program for months. The team meets regularly and has collaborated across our system to ensure that if a pandemic hits, we will be ready to handle the emergency needs of our communities, employees and their families.

Individual and Family Planning

Here are several measures you should take to prepare for a pandemic:

• Put together an emergency kit that has enough food, water and medical supplies to last for a few weeks. Be careful to include medications for treating flu symptoms, such as pain relievers, stomach remedies, cold and cough medicines, vitamins and fluids containing electrolytes.
• Talk to your family members and loved ones about how they would want to receive care if they were to become sick. Collect the medical histories of everyone in your home and develop an emergency card that lists vital phone numbers.
• Develop a plan for isolating your family for several weeks. The first wave of any pandemic quickly exhausts available medical resources. If you can avoid becoming sick until the first wave has passed, you will lessen the burden on the community's resources and improve your chance at receiving care once you do become infected.
• Practice good hygiene habits at all time, particularly hand hygiene. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and use tissues to cover coughs and sneezes. If you are sick, stay home from school or work.
• Stay abreast of current news and closely follow the instructions of local public health and emergency officials at all times.

Learn More

For more information on how to prepare for a flu pandemic, visit the United States Government pandemic and avian flu website.

• Pandemic Flu Preparedness