Ready for a Pandemic? This Virologist’s Checklist Might Help
What if everything changed tomorrow?
This is the question more of us ask as we face the biggest epidemic in years: the coronavirus. With over 100 confirmed cases all across the U.S., authorities can no longer find patient zero.
Fortunately, we’re still far from declaring it is a pandemic, yet I can’t help but wonder: how long until it actually becomes one? Are we, as individuals, ready for this massive change in our everyday lives? (I’m talking closed workplaces, public institutions, running out of food supplies etc.)
Should we expect a pandemic?
Ian Mackay is a virologist and adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Queensland, Australia. In a recent blog post, he stresses the fact that we shouldn’t panic right away, but now would be ‘a great time to make a list, label up a ‘Pandemic Stash’ box, and begin to slowly fill it with items that won’t go off and that you won’t touch unless needed.’
Dr. Nancy Messonnier, director of the National Center for Respiratory Diseases at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, agrees that we should take a pandemic into consideration. ‘It’s not so much a question of if this will happen anymore but rather more a question of exactly when this will happen.’
Protect from coronavirus!
Creating a ‘pandemic stash’ box
These statements coming from reputable health experts definitely made me want a checklist with everything I need in case the world turns upside down tomorrow. If you feel the same way, let’s have a look at dr. Ian Mackay’s list of products required during a pandemic.
- Medication: prescription medication, pain and anti-fever medication, vitamins
- Household cleaning agents
- Foods: cereals, tinned food, dried fruit, pasta
- Pet care
- Alcohol hand sanitizers
- External Battery Power Bank
Mackay also mentions a few things you should leave for the last minute, such as bread, milk, eggs or vegetables. These items should only be bought if officials confirm a severe pandemic.
Overall, I think the most valuable piece of advice offerred by experts is to stay calm and evaluate the current situation rationally – all while being well-informed.
What else would you add to your ‘pandemic stash’ box? Leave a comment below and let’s help each other out!
