Keep in mind that that preparedness can also begin in our own homes. A checklist of what we all can do in our homes is available at www.pandemicflu.gov and below. Such checklists are also available for local governments, businesses, schools, health care providers and community organizations. I ask that you view these lists in your preparation and to aid the community around you.

There are some simple actions everyone can do to stem the spread of a pandemic influenza: wash your hands frequently, use tissues and cover your cough or sneeze and stay home when you are sick. Plan to avoid crowds of people and people who are sick, when possible. We anticipate that schools and businesses may need to close temporarily in the event of a pandemic, so we must all plan for alternate childcare, as well as for how to respond to work restrictions and other measures aimed at limiting the spread of the disease.

Tennessee’s pandemic planning will be finished soon. It will then be up to communities – one by one - to carry out that plan. Your help and readiness are an important part of pandemic planning, and will help make a pandemic, when it occurs, less of a burden on our great state. Our Governor and I greatly appreciate your partnership.

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PANDEMIC FLU PLANNING CHECKLIST FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES

To plan for a pandemic:

• Store a supply of water and food. During a pandemic, if you cannot get to a store, or if stores are out of supplies, it will be important for you to have extra supplies on hand. This can be useful in other types of emergencies, such as power outages and disasters.

• Have any nonprescription drugs and other health supplies on hand, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, cough and cold medicines, fluids with electrolytes and vitamins.

• 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 in your home.

• Volunteer with local groups to prepare and assist with emergency response.

• Get involved in your community as it works to prepare for an influenza pandemic.
To plan for a pandemic:

• Teach your children to wash hands frequently with soap and water, and model the correct behavior.

• Teach your children to cover coughs and sneezes with tissues, and be sure to model that behavior.

• Teach your children to stay away from others as much as possible if they are sick. Stay home from work and school if sick. Continued on next page »

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