None of us were ready for the pandemic; Not the government, not the scientists, not you, and not me. Pandemics, such as the one we are currently living through, could lead to weakened economies, closures of schools and business, travel restrictions, and much more. It is understandable that people may become anxious or panic in situations like this. However, we’re here to help! Here are some things you could do to prepare for the next pandemic!
Getting yourself ready
1. Keep calm
Pandemics are SUPER nerve-wracking due to its unpredictable nature. Things could be looking great for a while, and suddenly, a new variant pops up!(cough cough omicron) Try to keep a cool head, as panicking causes people to freeze up and make rash decisions, that may put you and your family in unnecessary risk. Things may feel out of your control, but here are some things you could do to keep calm!
- Take breaks from the news, including social media!
- Focus on what has not changed, such as your friends and family, rather than things that have
- Accept your feelings as normal. Don’t push them away! It’ll just make things worse!!!
- Practice daily stress relievers, such as exercising, yoga, reading, or even binge watching your favorite show!
2. Use reliable resources
Follow what your high school teacher said! Don’t use shady sources! Accurate information is crucial during a pandemic. Having solid intel could help you make the right decisions and weigh the risks to you and your family. At the beginning of a pandemic, there are often a lot of unknowns, such as how it spreads, who it most at risk, or even what the pathogen is! Always visit public agencies such as your local health department, or the WHO website for updates! Most important of all, always have a healthy dose of skepticism about things you read on Facebook, or in fact, any social media outlet!
3. Stock up on essentials
Here comes the fun part! Remember the toilet paper crisis? Well, supply shortages can often occur during a pandemic. Although they are short-lived, it will still cause stress and make it hard to find what you need! Planning ahead and stocking up on supplies can help prevent this. While others are rushing to Walmart to fight over notebooks(because they are totally essentials), you could be chilling at home! Here are some things you should have on hand at the first indications of a pandemic:
- Two weeks’ supply of food for everyone(family and pets!)
- Two to three month’s supply of prescription medicine(if anyone needs it)
- Two to four weeks’ supply of hygiene products
- A first aid kit with nonprescription medicines, such as cold remedies
- Cleaning supplies, such as trash bags, dish soaps, and more!
4. Have a game plan
Things can move quickly during a pandemic. Always remember to plan ahead!
- Home lockdown
- If you and your family are stuck indoors for days or weeks, always have actives planned! Don’t just rely on streaming videos and online games, as large scale quarantines can slow internet connections! Always have a board game or cards in hand.
- Work shutdown
- If you are not working because you are sick or your business has shut down, research the benefits you are entitled to! Unemployment benefits, social security disability, and sick leave pays are great examples. If your job security is uncertain, try to save enough money to get by through the pay gaps!
- School closures
- Schools are often the first places to close during pandemics, requiring you to find other child care options! Rely on family members or loved ones to take care of your child if you are unable to work remotely! School closures often have a big impact on your child, so pay attention to their emotional and physical needs!
- Illness
- If you or your family member falls ill during the pandemic, you need to know who to call for help. Unless if there is a medical emergency, don’t bring an ill individual to a doctor or clinic without calling before!
5. What to do during a pandemic
Now that you’re all prepped up, here are some ways you can limit the spread of infection by taking a few, simple precautions!
- Follow public health instructions
- Know the signs and symptoms
- Practice good hygiene
- Avoid crowds
- Know what to do if you get sick
While you should always remain alert, it is equally important to stay calm. Focus on what you can do, rather than stressing about what may happen! I hope you and your loved ones stay safe! 🙂