The flu and you: practice prevention and preparedness
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The Canadian Red Cross is encouraging the public to practice prevention and preparedness during the H1N1 influenza outbreak. Throughout the year the Canadian Red Cross, in coordination with Health Canada, Public Health Agency of Canada, Public Safety Canada and provincial and local authorities, works with communities to ensure that they are prepared for any type of disaster, including health emergencies.
“We recommend that Canadians take precautionary measures to protect themselves from influenza and update their emergency preparedness plan for all types of disasters, including health emergencies,” says Canadian Red Cross Director General of Disaster Management, John Byrne.”Washing your hands regularly with plenty of soap and warm water and covering your mouth when you cough are two simple things you can do to protect yourself and stop the spread of germs. People should also prepare an emergency kit with non-perishable food, water and medication for a minimum of 72 hours and up to two weeks.”
Additional prevention recommendations are:
- Wash your hands with plenty of soap and warm water
- Cover your mouth when you cough (using your arm rather than your hand)
- Use a tissue or handkerchief when you sneeze
- Stay home from work if you are feeling ill
- Consult your health care provider immediately if you become sick or to discuss other preventative health care measures
Additional preparedness recommendations are:
- Update your emergency contact list so that you can reach family members
- Store health and cleaning supplies, such as disinfectants, tissues, a thermometer, disposable gloves, soap and alcohol-based hand sanitizers
- Talk to your employer regarding possible alternate work arrangements if needed
- Talk to your child’s school or daycare regarding their plan for health emergencies.
The Canadian Red Cross is monitoring the H1N1 flu outbreak closely and has been in contact with national, provincial and local health authorities to offer support.
This may include providing preventative health information and emergency preparedness information to the public or providing direct support to vulnerable populations facing an emergency.
For more information about H1N1 influenza please visit the websites of Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization.
Click here for educational resources designed to help children, parents, teachers and caregivers learn about the importance of illness prevention and control. Click here for additional information about how to prepare your family for a health emergency in your community or contact your local Red Cross office for additional resources.
