linnugripiblog

To avoid contracting or passing flu viruses to others, individuals should wash hands after touching blood, body fluids, secretions, excretions and contaminated items; after removing gloves; and between physical contacts with other people. Wash with either plain or anti-microbial soap and water or use alcohol-based products (gels, rinses or foams) that contain an emollient and do not require the use of water.

They also should:

• Avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth, or exposed skin with contaminated hands. Avoid touching surfaces doorknobs, keys, light switches without clean gloves.

• Use gloves and eye protection if in contact with blood, body fluids, secretions or excretions.

• Contain and dispose of solid waste in accordance with community health guidelines.

• Make sure building ventilation systems are well maintained to protect people inside from airborne threats.

Families should stock cupboards with enough nonperishable and prepackaged food products to last four weeks to five weeks. Supplies should include bottled water, canned meats, fruits, vegetables, soups, protein or fruit bars, dry cereal, granola and fruit bars, crackers, peanut butter or nuts, canned juices, canned or jarred baby food and formula, and pet food.

To avoid opportunities for exposure, shoppers should consolidate trips to the grocery store by purchasing larger quantities than normally and avoid dining outside the home during the initial months of a pandemic.

Other important precautions include stockpiling prescription drugs, if possible, as well as medical supplies like insulin and blood-pressure monitoring equipment, soap and water or alcohol-based hand wash, anti-diarrheal medication and fluids with electrolytes and vitamins.