16.4 Pandemic

A pandemic lasts months, not days. The goal is to reduce infections at home, keep your medication supply going, and be ready for weeks of going out less.

Supplies for 2 weeks (per person and per pet)

• Water: 14 gallons (53 L) per person, at 1 gallon per person per day, plus water for pets based on their weight. If the water system is working, having a reserve is enough.
• Nonperishable food for 2 weeks, for people and pets.
• Prescription medications with continuous refills; check dates and refill on time.
• Over-the-counter medications: for fever and pain, cough and cold, upset stomach, electrolyte drinks (dose per the label).
• Thermometer, disposable gloves, soap, disinfectant, trash bags.
• Enough N95 masks for each adult.
• Paper and digital copies of medical records, insurance, and doctors' phone numbers.

N95 mask: use it properly

• Buy NIOSH-approved respirators (it says "NIOSH" and "N95" printed on it).
• An N95 filters at least 95% of airborne particles if it seals well against the face. A beard or facial hair prevents a seal.
• Check the seal every time: cover the respirator with your hands and exhale; air should not escape around the edges.
• It does not protect against chemical gases or vapors.
• Replace it if it gets wet, dirty, or damaged, or if it is hard to breathe through.

Isolation at home

In a home or apartment with several people, plan for it now:

1. Assign a room for the sick person, preferably with its own bathroom. If you share a bathroom, the sick person should use it last and clean it afterward.
2. One caregiver only, with an N95 when entering the room. The sick person wears a face mask if they leave it.
3. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after caring for the sick person.
4. Do not share dishes, cups, towels, or bedding without washing them.
5. Ventilate when the weather allows and clean frequently touched surfaces.
6. Pets: the sick person should limit contact with them if health authorities recommend it for that illness.
7. Know the warning signs that public health lists (for example, difficulty breathing) and seek medical care in time.