Essential Survival Items for Pandemics
Pandemics have become a reality in the world today, and it's important to be prepared for them. With the right survival items, you can ensure that you and your family are safe and protected during pandemics. This article aims to outline the essential survival items for pandemics that can help you stay safe and healthy.
To create this list, we have referenced several sources, including MPH Online, Ready.gov, More Prepared, Ready America, and Join Cake.
In this article, we will cover the following essential survival items for pandemics:
- Hygiene products
- Medical supplies
- Non-perishable food
- Mental health items
- Sheltering in place
- Emergency supply kit
It's important to note that while these items are essential, it's always best to follow the guidance of public health officials regarding specific items to have on hand during pandemics. Now, let's dive into each of these essential items in more detail.
Hygiene Products
Hygiene products are essential during pandemics to help prevent the spread of infection. The following are essential hygiene products to have on hand:
Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is a must-have hygiene product during pandemics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Hand sanitizer helps kill germs on your hands when you don't have access to soap and water.
Disinfectant Wipes
Disinfectant wipes are essential for cleaning surfaces that may have been contaminated with the virus. The CDC recommends using disinfectant wipes that are effective against viruses, such as the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
Soap and Water
Washing your hands with soap and water is the best way to remove germs from your hands. The CDC recommends washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. It's important to wash your hands frequently, especially after being in public places or touching surfaces that may be contaminated.
Face Masks
Face masks are essential for preventing the spread of the virus. The CDC recommends wearing a face mask in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, such as grocery stores or public transportation. It's important to choose a face mask that fits snugly over your nose and mouth and is made of multiple layers of fabric.
By having these essential hygiene products on hand, you can help prevent the spread of infection during pandemics.
Medical Supplies
Medical supplies are essential during pandemics to help you stay healthy and treat any illnesses or injuries that might occur. The following are essential medical supplies to have on hand:
Thermometer
A thermometer is an essential tool to have during pandemics to monitor your temperature. A fever is a common symptom of many illnesses, including COVID-19, so it's important to have a reliable thermometer to monitor your temperature.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is essential during pandemics to treat minor injuries or illnesses that don't require medical attention. A basic first aid kit should include bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
Prescription Medications
If you take prescription medications, it's important to have a supply of them on hand during pandemics. Talk to your doctor about getting a 90-day supply of your medications so that you don't have to leave your home to refill your prescription.
Pain Relievers
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve symptoms such as fever, headache, and body aches that may occur during pandemics.
Cough Medicine
Cough medicine can help relieve coughing and other symptoms associated with respiratory illnesses. It's important to choose a cough medicine that's appropriate for your age and medical history.
By having these essential medical supplies on hand, you can stay healthy and treat any illnesses or injuries that might occur during pandemics.
Non-Perishable Food
Non-perishable food is essential during pandemics to ensure that you have enough food to sustain you and your family during potential quarantines or lockdowns. The following are essential non-perishable foods to have on hand:
Canned Foods
Canned foods are a great choice for non-perishable food during pandemics. Some good options include canned fruits, vegetables, meats, and soups. Make sure to check the expiration dates on the cans and rotate your stock to ensure freshness.
Dried Foods
Dried foods are another good choice for non-perishable food during pandemics. Some good options include dried fruits, nuts, and meats. Dried pasta, rice, and beans are also good choices and can be used to make a variety of meals.
Crackers and Granola Bars
Crackers and granola bars are a good option for non-perishable snacks during pandemics. They're easy to store and can be eaten on the go if necessary.
Powdered Milk and Drinks
Powdered milk and drinks are a good choice for non-perishable beverages during pandemics. They're easy to store and can be used to make a variety of drinks, including hot cocoa, coffee, and tea.
Baby Formula (if needed)
If you have a baby, it's important to have a supply of baby formula on hand during pandemics. Make sure to check the expiration date on the formula and rotate your stock to ensure freshness.
By having these essential non-perishable foods on hand, you can ensure that you and your family have enough food to sustain you during potential quarantines or lockdowns.
Mental Health Items
Maintaining good mental health is important during pandemics. The following are essential mental health items to have on hand:
Books and Games
Books and games are a great way to pass the time and keep your mind active during pandemics. Consider stocking up on books, puzzles, board games, and card games to keep yourself and your family entertained.
Exercise Equipment
Exercise is important for maintaining good mental health during pandemics. Consider purchasing exercise equipment such as resistance bands or dumbbells to use at home. You can also find exercise videos online to follow along with.
Stress Relief Items
Stress relief items can help you manage stress and anxiety during pandemics. Consider stocking up on items such as stress balls, fidget spinners, or essential oils.
Contact with Loved Ones
Maintaining contact with loved ones is important for mental health during pandemics, especially if you're unable to see them in person. Make sure to have a reliable way to communicate with your loved ones, whether it's through phone calls, video chats, or social media.
Mental Health Support
If you're struggling with your mental health during pandemics, it's important to seek support. Consider reaching out to a mental health professional or joining an online support group.
By having these essential mental health items on hand, you can help maintain good mental health during pandemics and reduce stress and anxiety.
Additional Items
In addition to the essential items listed above, there are some additional items that may be useful during pandemics. The following are some additional items to consider:
Face Masks
Face masks are an essential item during pandemics to help prevent the spread of illness. Make sure to have a supply of face masks on hand for you and your family.
Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is another essential item to have on hand during pandemics. Make sure to choose a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol and use it frequently throughout the day.
Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning supplies are important during pandemics to keep your home and belongings clean and disinfected. Consider stocking up on items such as disinfecting wipes, bleach, and all-purpose cleaner.
Cash
Having cash on hand is important during pandemics in case ATMs or banks are closed or inaccessible.
Pet Supplies
If you have pets, it's important to have a supply of pet food and other pet supplies on hand during pandemics.
By having these additional items on hand, you can be better prepared for pandemics and help keep yourself and your family safe and healthy.
Conclusion
Pandemics can be scary and uncertain times, but by being prepared with the essential survival items listed above, you can help keep yourself and your family safe and healthy. Remember to follow public health guidelines, such as wearing masks and social distancing, to help slow the spread of illness.
By having a pandemic survival kit and additional items on hand, you can be better prepared for potential quarantines or lockdowns. Make sure to regularly check and rotate your stock to ensure freshness of items such as non-perishable food and medications.
Remember to prioritize your mental health during pandemics as well. Stock up on books, games, and stress relief items to help manage stress and anxiety. If you're struggling, don't hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional or online support group.
Stay safe and be prepared.
Explore Our Other Great Content
If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out our other great content on emergency preparedness and survival. Here are some articles you may find useful:
- Emergency Preparedness: A Beginner's Guide
- Survival Skills Everyone Should Know
- Preparing Your Home for Natural Disasters
- First Aid and Medical Supplies for Emergencies
Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest emergency preparedness tips and news. Thank you for reading!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most essential survival items for pandemics?
Hygiene products, medical supplies, non-perishable food, and mental health items.
Who should have a survival kit for pandemics?
Everyone should have a survival kit to be prepared for potential quarantines or lockdowns.
How often should I check and rotate my pandemic survival kit?
Check and rotate your stock regularly to ensure freshness of items such as non-perishable food and medications.
What if I can't afford a pandemic survival kit?
Consider starting with a few essential items and gradually building your kit over time.
How can I prioritize my mental health during pandemics?
Stock up on books, games, and stress relief items to help manage stress and anxiety.
What if I'm not sure how to prepare for pandemics?
Check out our beginner's guide to emergency preparedness for helpful tips and information.
