Saturday, May 2, 2009

Are you prepared for any pandemic threats?

So far there are no cases of swine flu in Malaysia but we never know when it will come or even if it is already here with the ease of international travel. Below is recommendations from Sunway Medical Centre on precautions to take.






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In the event of a widespread outbreak of any type of illness, one of the best precautions you can take would be to eliminate or minimize your exposure to the general public by self quarantining. This would require that have ready a supply of essential supplies such as food, medications, toiletries etc. If you have not done so already, now is definitely the time to prepare to meet any future challenges rather than wait for a crisis to occur and join everyone to empty the local grocery stores.

You should have enough nonperishable and canned items to be able to get through a couple of weeks without having to leave home. If you need to take medications or supplements, it is not unreasonable to keep a three-month supply on hand. Just make sure to rotate the items as you continue to purchase new supplies each month. Whenever anyone goes to my kitchen, they always comment on the amount of nonperishable food in the cupboard and frozen food in the freezer. This is because I am always prepared for any emergencies.

For various respiratory threats I would suggest keeping a small supply of fiber surgical masks around. Dousing them with several drops of eucalyptus oil goes a long way toward both preventing and treating respiratory infections. Type N95 masks offer improved filtering power against bacteria and other pathogens. Keep a few on hand for everyone in the family. You can find the masks in many pharmacies or at any medical supply house or on the Internet. While you're shopping, include a box of surgical gloves as well.

My intent in sharing this information is not to frighten or create a feeling of hopelessness, but I do think it is a threat that you and your family need to be aware of and prepare for.