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As a humanitarian organization we help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.  In the past, the Red Cross has responded to other public health emergencies, including tuberculosis, influenza and polio epidemics in the 1940s and 1950s.  We were also on the forefront of public education to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic that began in the 1980s.  Our response now expands to meet the current threat that an influenza pandemic could pose to public health.  Now is the time to make a plan for yourself, your family and your business:

Recognize Pandemic Flu Symptoms

Watch for these symptoms:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Muscle pain

Call your health-care professional at the first sign of the flu.  Many symptoms can be treated by the health-care professional over the telephone.

Pandemic Flu Care giving Supplies

• Thermometer
• Soap
• Box of disposable gloves
• Acetaminophen
• Ibuprophen
• Bleach
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Paper towels
• Tissues
• Surgical masks (one for each person)
• Sugar, baking soda, salt, salt substitute

While the H5N1 virus (Avian or Bird Flu) has not yet appeared in the U.S., it is important for all Americans to be informed about this potential public health threat and some of the steps individual Americans can take to protect themselves and their families in the event of a pandemic.

For more information on Pandemic Planning and Preparedness please visit:  www.pandemicflu.gov or www.redcross.org or 1-800-RED-CROSS.