Flu Pandemic Preparedness

First, a disclaimer. None of the following information should take the place of medical advice dispensed by your physician. The guidelines below were developed by a concerned father aiming to protect his family from H1N1 (Swine Flu) outbreak. Obviously, they won’t work for every scenario, particularly for those with weakened immune systems, or who are at risk for complications from H1N1.

Now that we have that out of the way, I’d like to share some things our family is doing to prepare for the coming flu pandemic. Because of our current location and proximity to populated areas, it isn’t feasible to completely isolate ourselves. But we can take a few simple steps to reduce the chances of contracting H1N1 if a flu outbreak occurs locally.

Help your immune system, naturally. The easiest way to do that is to get a little sunlight each day. Sunlight increases the generation of natural Vitamin D found in our body. According to the Mayo Clinic, “The sun also contributes significantly to the daily production of vitamin D, and as little as 10 minutes of exposure is thought to be enough to prevent deficiencies.” Vitamin D is also found in foods such as eggs, fortified milk, and fish. Most decent multi-vitamins contain the proper daily allowance for Vitamin D.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Make sure you are getting enough sleep at night. Stop smoking. Drop a few pounds. Drink plenty of fluids (preferably plain old water). Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Make fewer shopping trips. The less interaction with large groups, the better. Try to move towards a bi-weekly, or even monthly, shopping pattern. Remember breads, milk and fruits and vegetables can be frozen and thawed for later use to avoid those “quick stops” into the grocery store.

Hand sanitizers are our new best friend. We have become much more aware of our hygiene habits, scrubbing religiously with anti-bacterial soap after using the restroom and before eating. If you are out and about, frequently use hand sanitizers, especially before you eat. Consider sending one of those trial-size bottled of sanitizers in a plastic bag along with your kids’ lunch and encourage them to use it before they eat.

Avoid crowded, confined spaces. If there is a flu outbreak in your area, avoid places where crowds tend to mingle. Watch movies at home, avoid eating out, etc. There are just too many opportunities to pick up the flu virus in these settings.

Wear a mask, disposable gloves if H1N1 reported locally. If you do have to venture out, consider wearing a surgical mask and a pair of disposable gloves (get non-latex gloves to avoid allergic reactions). You might think you look silly, but who cares.

Stock up on acetaminophen, ibuprofen, anti-diarrhea (Loperamide) and expectorants (Guaifenesin). I am less concerned about these supplies running out, and more concerned with you feeling up to getting them if you come down with flu. As previously mentioned, there is also risk in venturing out during a flu epidemic. Generally avoid cough suppressants, and instead look for expectorants, such as Mucinex or a similar product with a quality dosage of Guaifenesin. Again, check with your physician before taking any over the counter flu medicine.

Stockpile electrolyte-dense liquids (Gatorade, Pedialyte, etc.).High fevers and diarrhea can cause severe dehydration, a leading complicating factor of flu. Replacing fluids and electrolytes is essential in staying properly hydrated. If you use Gatorade/Powerade or a similar sports drink, consider watering down to a 50/50 solution. Sports drinks usually have a high concentration of sugar, which might do even more to upset your stomach.

Is the Swine Flu Vaccine Safe?

While there have been no serious side effects reported on early trials of this year’s flu vaccine, I remain skeptical. Call me paranoid, but I am not a fan of most vaccinations. The normal flu shot has some unsavory ingredients I’d rather avoid, and I’m quite sure this year’s will as well. The fact the government is “fast tracking” the vaccine doesn’t help my skepticism.

That said, if you and your doctor discuss the risk factors, including your age and strength of your immune system, and decide you need the vaccine, then you should consider it. Getting a flu shot is a decision that should be made in consult with your physician. Don’t do it or not do it based on what you read on a blog, in the news, or hear at school.