Additional Valuable Information

The American Red Cross has always recommended emergency preparedness, not for a possible flu pandemic, but rather any emergency that may come upon us. Such emergencies may include a tornado, flood, severe winter storms, etc. A family preparedness kit can be purchased directly from the Red Cross, packaged in an easy to carry back pack. Additional information can be found by visiting www.redcross.org.

Additionally, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Coordinating Center for Infectious Diseases, National Center for Infectious Diseases (CDC) in partnership with Reckitt Benckiser Inc., the makers of LYSOL® Brand Products, have recently updated and re-launched a 7 Step Program called AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION—KEEPS THE GERMS AWAY. By following these seven easy and low cost steps one can stop many infectious diseases and maintain a Safer, Healthier Home. These seven steps include:

CLEAN YOUR HANDS OFTEN—Keeping your hands clean is one of the best ways to keep from getting sick and spreading illness.

ROUTINELY CLEAN AND DISINFECT SURFACES—Cleaning with soap, water and scrubbing removes dirt and most germs. However, using a disinfectant cleaner kills germs, giving even better protection.

HANDLE AND PREPARE FOOD SAFELY

• Clean hands and surfaces often
• Separate—don’t cross contaminate one food with another
• Cook foods to proper temperatures
• Chill- Refrigerate foods promptly

GET IMMUNIZED—Getting immunizations is easy, low-cost, and saves lives. Make sure you and your kids get the shots suggested by your doctor.

USE ANTIBIOTICS APPROPRIATELY—Antibiotics don’t work against viruses such as colds and flu. Unnecessary antibiotics can be harmful. Antibiotics should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

BE CAREFUL WITH PETS—Pets should be routinely cared for by a vet. Babies and children under age 5 should be watched carefully around pets and animals. Always wash hands after touching animals or animal waste.

AVOID CONTACT WITH WILD ANIMALS—Wild animals can carry deadly diseases and pass them to you and your pets. Keep your house free of wild animals by not leaving any food around. Keep garbage cans sealed.

For information about downloading these helpful materials or to order brochures and posters, please visit www.cdc.gov/ounceofprevention.