Webcast Outline: Sept. 25, 2008

The following is an outline of the visual presentation made by Dr. Richard Benjamin, Chief Medical Officer, American Red Cross, at the September 25 live Webcast. The Webcast provides information to help citizens learn more about pandemic flu and the steps they can take now to plan for a pandemic.

What should I do to prepare for a flu pandemic?

First, ask yourself these questions:

• What if my children’s schools were closed?
• What if a family member were to become ill?
• What if I could not go to work?
• What if I had to stay home for an extended period of time?

Gather essential supplies

• Agua
• Easy-to-prepare food
• Medications and medical supplies
• Medical history and contact information
• Health and cleaning supplies

Easy-to-prepare foods

• Canned meats, fruits, vegetables and soups
• Protein/fruit bars, dried fruit and crackers
• Cereal/granola, peanut butter and nuts
• Juice (jarred or boxed)
• Milk (boxed or powdered)
• Baby food and formula

Get in the habit of….

• Washing hands often with soap and water
• Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
• Cleaning and disinfecting commonly shared items
• Staying home when you’re sick
• Getting plenty of rest
• Drinking lots of fluids
• Exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet
• Getting a seasonal flu shot every year.

Caregiving Tips

• Designate one person as caregiver
• Keep personal items separate
• Use very hot water for washing dishes and clothes
• Wear disposable gloves

For more information from the Red Cross about how to prepare for a flu pandemic go to:

www.redcross.org/pandemicflu

Contact your local chapter to request a Pandemic Flu Family Preparedness Guide. To find the chapter closest to you go to www.redcross.org and type in your zipcode.