Better safe than sorry: Be prepared for possibility of pandemic flu Published Feb. 28, 2008 By Senior Airman Shane Dunaway 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Even though flu season is coming to an end, all 4th Fighter Wing members should be prepared in the event of a pandemic flu outbreak. "The 4th FW plan for medical response and contingency operations in the event of a pandemic influenza outbreak is contained in the 4th Medical Group's Medical Contingency Response Plan," said Capt. Michael Renkas, public health flight officer-in-charge. "The plan was created with input from multiple agencies and references including but not limited to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, DoD guidance documents and the Armed Forces Medical Intelligence Center." The plan establishes flu condition levels, also known as FLUCON levels, which dictate the appropriate response and preventive measures to be implemented in a given situation. According to the State of North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, a flu pandemic has little or nothing in common with the annual flu season. A pandemic flu would be a new strain and a much more serious and contagious flu virus. The possibility of pandemic flu is serious because people would not have immunity to a new pandemic virus. Once a pandemic virus develops, it can spread rapidly, causing outbreaks around the world. The most effective non-pharmaceutical means of protection against a possible outbreak are hand hygiene, cough etiquette and social distancing. "Establishing good hand hygiene practices through proper hand washing and the use of alcohol gels or foam is proven to considerably impact the spread of many illnesses," Captain Renkas said. "Following good cough etiquette by covering your cough with a tissue, your hand or by wearing a mask is especially effective where human to human interaction is unavoidable. Finally, social distancing or the maintenance of at least a three foot personal space when interacting with others will also help to prevent the transmission of illness." Follow these preventative measures to ensure proper preparation for a possible pandemic flu outbreak: - Store a two-week supply of water and food, including non-perishable items. Examples include ready-to-eat canned foods, protein or fruit bars, dry cereal or granola, baby food, pet food and bottled water. - Periodically check regular prescription drug to ensure a continuous supply is available. - Have nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand. Examples include soap and water or alcohol-based hand wash, medicines for pain and fever, thermometer, vitamins and fluids with electrolytes. - Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick or what will be needed to care for them. - Volunteer with local groups to prepare and assist with emergency response. - Get involved in the local community as it works to prepare for an influenza pandemic. For more information on pandemic flu, visit www.pandemicflu.gov or call the Wayne County Public Health Department at (919) 731-1000.