In the spring of 2009 the swine flu virus exploded on to the international stage. Swine flu's rapid spread stunned the medical community and terrified the public worldwide. By the summer of 2009 millions had already been infected forcing the World Health Organization to declare swine flu (later renamed H1N1) a full pandemic. As autumn approaches for the northern hemisphere government and medical agencies worldwide have resumed their call for the general public to prepare a pandemic flu plan. Whether the next great flu pandemic originates from birds or pigs is irrelevant; what is important is that flu pandemics are historically devastating events with protracted health and financial repercussions. As scientists have repeatedly stressed we are long overdue for another flu pandemic. Like any other emergency situation education and preparation will be the keys to safely navigating the flu pandemic. Now is the time to develop a comprehensive flu pandemic plan. Hopefully it will never have to be implemented; however, if it is you'll be far ahead of everyone else.

Developing a pandemic flu plan isn't complicated and requires only some simple preparations. During a swine flu pandemic you may want to reduce your exposure to the general public for several weeks. This means keeping a reasonable supply of canned and dried foods in your kitchen cabinets. If you're on any prescription medications make sure you have a plentiful supply.

A complete pandemic flu plan requires that you get use to washing your hands frequently with soap and warm water. Make sure your hand washing ritual lasts at least 20 seconds before drying with a disposable paper towel. In the absence of soap and water an alcohol disinfecting gel is better than nothing. Rub the gel over your hands and fingers until dry.

Keep your car's gas tank full.

A viable pandemic flu plan requires that you update your family's emergency supply kit. Include common sense items such as several gallons of fresh water, flashlights, batteries, battery powered radio and extra cash. Check on the Red Cross's web site for more information.

An organized pandemic flu plan actually requires you have several plans each dealing with specific scenarios. For example during a swine flu pandemic you'll want to avoid large public gatherings if possible. Consider doing your weekly errands such as grocery shopping during off peak hours. You'll need another plan on caring for family members if they become ill. The CDC's H1N1 website provides detailed information to assist you in creating your pandemic flu plan.

A thoughtful pandemic flu plan might compel you to conduct more of your financial transactions online. Simply paying recurring monthly bills through your banks online site will save not only time and money, but it will keep you out of bank and post office lobbies.

A detailed pandemic flu plan starts with prevention. Consider getting vaccinated with the seasonal influenza vaccine. Flu clinics are scheduled to start earlier than usual in 2009. Keep abreast of the new swine flu vaccine that likely will require 2 doses several weeks apart. The availability of swine flu vaccine will determine who can receive it and who cannot.

A thorough pandemic flu plan necessitates purchasing some quality N95 face masks. These disposable respirator masks are similar to those used by healthcare workers. They are not perfect but if used properly in combination with other preventive measures they will significantly lower your risk of being affected during a swine flu pandemic.

A responsible pandemic flu plan needs accurate medical information. Bookmark the CDC's website (see below) to stay informed about the swine flu pandemic. Rumors and misinformation are potentially the most frightening aspects of a swine flu pandemic.

A practical pandemic flu plan demands organization. Keep handy the phone number of your doctor's office, local hospital and pharmacy (ideally one that offers home deliveries). During a swine flu pandemic should you develop flu like symptoms call your doctor's office first. It's very likely they will be able to triage you over the telephone and provide helpful information without you having to be seen. They may also call in medication for you by telephone.
                
With your dedicated efforts to avoid swine flu infection the last thing you need is to be exposed while at work. Encourage your employer to develop a business continuity plan as part of your own pandemic flu plan. Such a plan encourages cross training for essential job functions as well as liberal absenteeism in the event employees develop swine flu symptoms.