Preparing for a Pandemic

A pandemic is a global disease outbreak. It is usually caused by a new version of a virus (like the flu) that affects humans. If this situation occurs, the outbreak could require changes in many areas of society that may last for some time.

Protect Yourself and Your Family

Individuals, businesses, and communities can take steps now to lessen the effects of a pandemic. 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. 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 flu pandemic, in addition to nation and international flu updates, visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service's website at www.pandemicflu.gov. For up to the minute information regarding Arizona-specific, emergency health issues, visit www.az211.gov.