Pandemic Planning

2009 Thunder Bay & Area Pandemic Influenza Plan

In the event of a pandemic, the City and surrounding townships have developed plans to minimize disruption to our communities and to minimize serious illness.

We have worked with various partner agencies from different sectors to develop these plans.

The Thunder Bay & Area Pandemic Influenza plan applies to the City of Thunder Bay and the following municipalities:

In the event of a flu pandemic, some day-to-day services may be disrupted. Health care facilities, banks, grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants and government offices may be affected by employee illness.  Also, you may not be able to get out of your home if you are ill or caring for a loved one.

Stockpiling essential supplies for you and your family is a good way to prepare for this possibility. This pandemic planning guide from Health Canada includes strategies to help plan for an emergency.

The list to stock up on to prepare for a flu pandemic includes:

• pain relievers/fever reducers (e.g. acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
• cough & cold medicine
• anti-diarrhea medication
• fluids with salt & sugar
• vitamins
• stomach remedies
• prescribed medical supplies such as glucose & blood-pressure monitoring equipment
• tissues
• thermometer
• alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• equipment for people with disabilities
• general first aid kit

Foods & Drinks:

• ready-to-eat canned meats
• bottled water - at least 2 liters per person per day canned fruit & vegetables
• dried fruit
• soup
• protein bars
• cereal
• granola
• peanut butter
• nuts
• crackers
• canned juices
• tetra-packed milk or soy beverage

Tools, equipment, supplies:

• flashlight
• batteries
• battery powered or wind-up radio
• manual can opener
• soap
• garbage bags
• toilet paper
• candles, matches or lighter,
• extra keys for car & house
• cash and change on hand
• a full gas tank in your vehicle
• If applicable: feminine hygiene products, disposable diapers, diaper wipes (in the event of a water shortage), canned or jarred baby food/formula, pet food and water

Develop a care plan with friends and family.

• Discuss how you and your family with care for loved ones who are ill
• If others may be brought in to care for ill loved ones, discuss what health supplies, special foods or other items they require
• Add those items to your emergency supply list.
• Make your own emergency health information sheet. Include:
  • blood type
  • allergies
  • pre-existing medical conditions and
  • a list of current medications (type and dose) for each member of your household.

Keep all of your prescription medications filled.

• If you or anyone else in your household takes prescription medication, don't wait until it is finished to get it filled. Try to keep at least a 30 day supply on hand at all times.

What everyone can do to prevent getting the flu.

• Keep healthy so your immune system is as strong as possible by:
  • eating well
  • sleeping enough
  • reducing stress
  • exercising regularly and
  • getting a flu shot.

Practice good infection control measures:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or by using an alcohol-based (>60%) hand sanitizer.
• Cover your nose and mouth with your sleeve when you cough or sneeze.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth because this is how germs are spread.
• Disinfect commonly used surfaces like door knobs, telephones, keyboards and light switches.

Use social distancing strategies if necessary:

• Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick with respiratory symptoms (coughs) 
• Stay at least a meter (that's about 3 feet) away from people in crowds or avoid crowds altogether. Plan to avoid peak shopping times and arrange to pay bills at ATMs, online, or over the telephone
• Try to stay home from school or work if you are sick to reduce spreading illness

Use masks to prevent flu transmission.

• A simple surgical mask can be worn by someone who is sick with respiratory symptoms (e.g. coughing) if they are in the same room as others, in order to prevent the spread of illness causing germs.
• If you or someone you are caring for is going to wear a mask, follow these tips:
  • tie it securely and make sure it fits over the nose and mouth
  • replace it when it is damp or wet as it only works when it is dry
  • don't touch your the face when wearing the mask
  • throw it out after you have used it
  • take it off by touching the straps and throw it in the garbage right away
  • wash your hands after touching the mask