Proper Bird Flu Preparation


Defined Tag: Bird Flu Preparation.

In the past few years, bird flu has become more visible as a problem. As researchers continue to work towards developing a vaccination, and scientists worry that the bird flu virus may develop the ability to spread between humans, it becomes our duty to look towards proper bird flu preparation.

Bird flu preparation is not unlike any other form of emergency preparation. In the event that a pandemic does reach America, you will want those things which you ought to already have on hand; a first aid kit, non-perishable food items, and sterile, bottled water. Things such as a flashlight, batteries, radio, etc., will probably not be necessary in the event of a bird flu pandemic, but nevertheless they should be part of your standard emergency preparedness kit.

Your first aid bird flu preparation kit should include, if it doesn't already, any medications you may be taking, standard first aid supplies such as gauze, adhesive, antibacterial medicine, etc., plus--and this is very important--aspirin, acetaminophen, or another form of painkiller and fever reducer. This is an essential part of bird flu preparation. One of the most dangerous aspects of bird flu is the fever which inevitably accompanies it; in the event of a pandemic, you may not be able to reach medical aid, and it will be very important that you keep the fever down, as an extended fever can cause brain damage or even death. Medical personnel will almost certainly be overworked and overstressed and may not be able to reach you in time. This makes it all the more important that you have fever reducers on hand. Aspirin, Tylenol, Advil, or any generic brand will work.

Also, have *plenty* of bottled water on hand. You need enough to keep all the members of your family hydrated for at least a week, and you also need extra, again, in case someone in your family does contract bird flu and is unable to reach medical assistance. Cool, damp cloths applied to the forehead and neck areas coupled with a fever reducer may help bring the fever down.

Food should be non-perishable. If you include canned food, be sure to keep a can opener (not an electric one) close to it. For proper bird flu preparation, you need to assume that it will not be possible to visit a grocery store if a pandemic strikes, and plan accordingly.