2009 H1N1 Flu update

The CDC issues up-to-the-moment updates on the status of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic flu. Click on this link: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ .

Please note that many references in the topics below continue to pertain to the ongoing threat of influenza A(H5N1), otherwise known as avian flu (or "bird flu"), as well as other public health and weather-related contingencies. Please scroll down to the topics below.

Also, as you will see in Topic 7, below, washing your hands is an effective way to minimize spreading infection. Watch this short video to understand more about this important precaution. Show this video to your family members, especially your children.

Introduction...

The Town of New Canaan, Pandemic Preparedness Coordinating Committee, consistent with the guidelines prepared by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, has prepared this site to emphasize key preparation steps in anticipation of possible pandemic conditions as well as many other kinds of emergencies... (more) (Click on the image to the right to return to the Town of New Canaan website.)

Facts You Can Use

We have compiled information on twelve select topics relevant to New Canaan residents. (Click on the image to the right, for a printable version of the summary "Flu Flyer.") (Pre-printed versions are available at New Canaan Red Cross, 966-1663.)

Most topics pertain to many kinds of emergency situations, while others are more relevant to health-related problems, not just pandemics... (click here for more details.)

Please review the following topics—Food, Water, the Medicine Cabinet, and Family Disaster Supply Kit—these topics cover items you should have on hand at all times. Individual & Family Planning, Special Needs, and Pets—cover topics relevant to any emergency situation and take on further relevance during pandemic conditions. Hygiene Practices, Home Health Care for the Flu Patient, Living at Home for Extended Periods, and Medical Assistance—are particularly important for health-related emergency conditions. Who to Contact provides information about New Canaan resources to help answer question... and there are some useful links to videos and other media to help you better understand what the pandemic potential is all about and what you can do.

TWELVE SELECT TOPICS

Click on each topic below for more information. Please visit here often for updates.

1.  PROVIDING FOR FOOD
      ...always have a 4 week supply on hand, at all times...

2.  WATER
      ...have 3 gallons for each family member on hand, at all times...

3.  THE MEDICINE CABINET
      ...essential over-the-counter and prescription medications...

4.  FAMILY DISASTER SUPPLY KIT
      ...supplies you may need during emergencies...

5.  INDIVIDUAL & FAMILY PLANNING
      ...it is extremely important that your family prepare for emergencies...

6.  SPECIAL NEEDS
      ...people with special needs should include their particular requirements...

7.  HYGIENE PRACTICES
      ...your objective is to minimize the spread of disease...

8.  LIVING AT HOME FOR EXTENDED PERIODS
      ...you will be limiting public gatherings, working from home...

9.  HOME HEALTH CARE FOR THE FLU PATIENT
      ...how to tell if you have the flu and how to take care of those who are ill...

10. MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
      ...what to do if you get sick...

11. PETS
      ...arranging for your pets in an emergency...

12. WHO TO CONTACT & WHERE TO GO FOR HELP
      ...there are many town resources to draw upon...