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Pandemics and disease outbreaks: health safety

Pandemics and epidemic disease outbreaks occur when infectious diseases spread rapidly across populations. Official guidance from public health agencies helps slow transmission and protect high-risk individuals.

Do this now

  1. Follow official health guidance from international bodies (WHO) and national public health agencies (CDC, UKHSA, or your ministry of health).
  2. Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
  3. Stay home if you feel sick or exhibit symptoms of respiratory infection.
  4. Maintain a 14-day supply of essential prescription medications, non-perishable food, and basic household items.
  5. Wear a well-fitting mask (such as an N95 or KN95 respirator) in crowded indoor spaces during severe airborne outbreaks.

Reducing transmission in public and home

Infectious agents spread through respiratory droplets, airborne particles, or contaminated surfaces.

  • Hand hygiene: Wash hands after returning home from public areas, before eating, and after coughing or blowing your nose.
  • Respiratory etiquette: Cover coughs and sneezes into your elbow or a disposable tissue. Throw used tissues in a lined trash bin immediately.
  • Cleaning surfaces: Disinfect high-touch surfaces daily (doorknobs, light switches, phones, countertops) using EPA-approved household disinfectants.
  • Ventilation: Open windows or use portable HEPA air filtration units to increase clean air circulation in shared indoor rooms.

Preparing a home medical supply kit

Keep a designated health kit ready at home containing:

  • Thermometer (digital forehead or oral thermometer).
  • Fever-reducing medications (acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as advised by your pharmacist).
  • Cough drops, oral rehydration salts, and tissues.
  • Well-fitting masks (N95, KN95, or multi-layer surgical masks).
  • Hand sanitizer and surface disinfectant wipes.

Caregiving for a sick family member

If someone in your home falls ill with a contagious virus:

  • Isolate the sick person in a separate room with a dedicated bathroom if possible.
  • Designate one healthy adult family member to provide care to limit exposure.
  • Caregivers should wear a mask when in the same room as the sick person.
  • Ensure the sick person stays well hydrated with water, broth, or electrolyte drinks.

When to seek immediate emergency medical care

Seek emergency medical care right away if a sick person develops red flag warning signs:

  • Difficulty breathing, severe shortness of breath, or chest pain.
  • Persistent confusion, difficulty waking up, or unresponsiveness.
  • Bluish, pale, or gray lips, tongue, or skin.

... note "Public health authority guidance" Always rely on verified information from official public health organizations (WHO, national CDC, local health departments). Avoid unverified medical claims or self-medication with unapproved substances.