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The deadly Coronavirus Disease 2019, otherwise known as COVID 19, had already spread from China towards other countries and will likely spread to communities near you.
Health officials are warning that people should take precautions and prepare for major disruptions in their daily lives in the event of an outbreak.
The news that the state Department of Health in Hawaii suggested creating an emergency kit in case of a COVID-19 outbreak sent people running to stock up on supplies.
The authorities will likely come with the idea that if coronavirus was reported in the area, quarantine should be imposed or people may have to stay at home to reduce the risk of spreading the virus further.
John Yamniuk, president of Disaster Recovery Institute Canada said, adding a 72-hour survival kit is woefully inadequate if there is a COVID-19 pandemic.
He added that if there’s a need to quarantine communities, it is important to have plans ready as an outbreak will disrupt daily routines such as school closures and transit disruptions.
Preparing for a 2-week supply would be the most ideal.
Ready.gov, which is a website by the US Department of Homeland Security, has a checklist of items you can compile for an emergency kit for various emergencies including a pandemic. The list covers the following items:
Food and water
Store at least 14 day supply for everyone in the family including pets. Keep food frozen in the refrigerator and stock water in clean sealed containers. Include checking leaks and damaged pipes during your preparation.
Medications and infant formula
Ask your physician to provide you a prescription of your family member’s maintenance medications that can cover the entire duration of possible quarantine. Don’t forget to include over the counter medications for fever, flu symptoms and vitamins to keep your family and pets healthy. Always check the expiry date on all the medicines you buy and already have at home.
Wound Kit
Accidents can happen during quarantine. An open wound can provide easy access to bacteria, fungi and even viruses. Keep a wound kit to clean minor wounds.
Board games, books, and other activities
Being on quarantine can be boring, so keeping the family entertained during this period will help anxiety at bay. Keep a schedule of family activities that can be done inside the house like board games, BINGO or online movie marathon.
Get flu shots for your family
It's time to get in touch with your dentist and clinicians to check your health. It's important to get immunization shots before they start an epidemic in your area. Remember, having a strong immune system gives you a higher survival rate to viral onslaughts.
Toiletries and other hygiene products
Make sure you have a good amount of bath and laundry soap, toothpaste, contact lens cleaner, diapers, cotton swab/pads, tissue paper or wet wipes.
Stay current with the latest updates from the CDC at their website:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html