How To Protect Yourself If The Bird Flu Arrives
Avian influenza virus, H5N1, bird flu…no matter what
it’s being called, the threatening pandemic is worrying
world leaders, investors and citizens alike. While only 82
deaths have been attributed to the virus since 2003, every
new case increases the possibility that the deadly strain will
mutate from a bird disease to a human one – setting the
stage for a worldwide outbreak.
It’s difficult to predict exactly how hard the U.S.
would be hit. But if an outbreak had the severity of the 1918
Spanish flu, death tolls could reach 500,000, and the life
insurance industry could face a damaging $133 billion in claims,
reports the Insurance Information Institute (III).
As alarming reports like this continue to come in, world leaders
are pooling forces. This January countries donated a total
$1.9 billion to combat the worldwide threat, with the U.S.
pitching in $330 million of their own.
Don’t Panic…But Be Prepared
There’s no need to start avoiding crowded places or
wear a protective face mask at work. The U.S. is preparing
for the worst – whether the flu strikes next week or
never. If an outbreak does happen, the public will be given
health advisories with further instructions. However, there
are some recommendations you can follow now to prepare your
family for the bird flu.
What You Can Do Now
If a pandemic flu were to break out, you may be required or
choose to remain in your home for a week or more. In an emergency
situation supplies may run low and stores may not be able to
stay open. Try to stock up on all the essentials you would
need, including:
- Fresh water and canned food (don’t forget the
can opener)
- Diapers and baby food
- Medications (call your insurance
company or doctor for an extra supply)
- First Aid kit
- Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
- Flashlight
- Blankets
- Cell phone
- Garbage bags (in case regular trash pick
up is disrupted)
- Face masks for each family member
- Tissues, toilet paper
- Soap or anti-bacterial cleansing
agent
To lower your risks of contracting the bird flu, take the
same precautions you normally would during cold season:
- Wash hands frequently with hot soap and water, especially
after every cough or sneeze
- Cover your coughs and
sneezes with a tissue
- Stay home if you are sick
- See your doctor as soon
as possible if you develop a cough or fever
And for the time being, it’s recommended that you:
- Follow food safety guidelines. Avoid eating raw or
undercooked poultry and eggs
- Avoid coming in contact
with wildlife
- If you see a dead bird, report it
For more information, visit www.pandemicflu.gov
*This article is provided for educational and informational
purposes only. We are not licensed medical professionals and
this information should not be substituted for professional
medical advice. Please seek the advice of a healthcare professional
regarding your own personal situation.
SOURCES: U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services, U.S. Center of Disease Control
and Prevention, World Health Organization, Kentucky Department
for Health and Family Services, pandemicflu.gov, Insurance
Information Institute |
