Swine Flu Survival Kit - Be Prepared for an Outbreak

Health experts warn that we could be hit by a second wave of swine flu this fall, and recommend creating an emergency swine flu survival kit. These supplies will help keep you alive and safe in case of a severe swine flu outbreak.

How to Make a Swine Flu Survival Kit

The first thing you need in your swine flu emergency supplies is a standard first aid kit. If you have one already, compare it to the list below to make sure it is complete, and be sure to check the expiration date on any medications. If you do not yet have a first aid kit, here is what you will need:

Medications

• Antihistamines (diphenhydramine and/or loratadine) for allergic reactions
• Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, and/or aspirin)
• Antidiarrhea medications (loperamide)
• Antacids (Tums, Rolaids, Mylanta, Maalox, etc)

Note: Avoid multi-symptom treatments and remedies.  Shop for medications by active ingredient, not by brand name or the condition for which they are recommended.

Basic First Aid

• first-aid manual
• bandages
• gauze
• disposable gloves
• scissors
• medical tape
• thermometer
• tweezers
• antiseptic wipes
• antibiotic ointment
• hydrocortisone cream
• burn ointment
• calamine lotion
• cold packs
• eye-wash solution

For a flu outbreak...

For emergencies, you should always have 3 days of non-perishable food items on hand, as well as one gallon of bottled water per person per day.  However, the recommendations for a swine flu emergency kit are even greater, in case of an outbreak where people may have to isolate themselves to prevent the spread of the disease.  In addition to your first aid kit, you should have:

• Two weeks' supply of non-perishable food for your family
• Two weeks' bottled water for your family (one gallon per person per day)
• Fever reducers (acetominophen, ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Cold medications (chlorpheniramine, diphenhydramine, oxymetazoline, pseudoephedrine)
• Throat lozenges with honey, glycerin, or dyclonine
• Electrolyte drinks (Gatorade, Powerade) for hydration
• Hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) to sanitize hands if soap and water are not available
• Surgical masks with an N-95 rating or higher (will need to be changed frequently)

Make sure you have your swine flu survival kit (including first aid and medications) all in one place, easily accessible, and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is.  Consider other special needs your family might have, such as a stockpile of prescription medication.  The prospect of a swine flu outbreak may be scary, but once you have everything together, you can feel a little safer and more prepared in the face of possible emergency.