A “pandemic” is when a disease is spread from person to person throughout the world. A “pandemic flu” occurs when a new influenza virus (which we call “flu”) spreads easily and very quickly, making a lot of people throughout the world sick.
Some doctors and scientists are worried that a pandemic flu will make a lot of people very sick. They are also concerned that someday the Avian Flu (also called “bird flu”) could become “contagious” (spread from person to person) and become a pandemic.
Keep a good supply of prescription and nonprescription medicines and other health supplies that are needed often, including pain relievers (like aspirin), medicines for an upset stomach, cough and cold medicines, and vitamins. Here are some ideas for medical, health, and emergency supply items to have on hand if you have to stay at home for some time:
Needed medical supplies like glucose (blood sugar) and blood-pressure monitoring equipment, if you regularly need to check your blood sugar or blood pressure
Soap and water or hand wash
Medicines for fever
Thermometer
Anti-diarrhea medicine
Fluids with electrolytes, like sport drinks
Vitamins
Flashlight
Batteries
Portable radio
Manual can opener
Garbage bags
Tissues, toilet paper, disposable diapers
via kids.niehs.nih.gov