How to Survive a Disease Outbreak

An outbreak of a life-threatening disease can be scary. You can protect your family if you have all the facts. Visit www.az211.gov to access real time updates during natural or human caused emergencies and disasters.

Protect Yourself and Your Family

Individuals, businesses, and communities can take steps now to lessen the effects of such an event. Follow the advice of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

1. Talk with local public health officials and care providers about threats of a specific disease outbreak. Recommend prevention and control actions.
   
   
2. Adopt communitywide practices that encourage sick employees/students to stay home. Think about how businesses, schools, etc., can function with a minimal number of healthy individuals.
   
   
3. Practice good health habits: eat right, exercise daily, and get plenty of rest.
   
   
4. Wash hands often.
   
   
5. Cover coughs and sneezes with the crook of your arm. Do not use your hands.
   
   
6. Stay away from groups of people (especially if you are ill).
   
   
7. Stay informed about the outbreak. Be prepared to follow new instructions.
   
   
8. Check the Department of Health and Human Services Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov.
   
   
9. Visit www.az211.gov to access real time updates during natural or human caused emergencies and disasters.

For more information on preparing for and responding to a disease outbreak, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov.