Associated with the page Types of emergency situations
In the event of a pandemic, follow the advice of the public health authorities and respect the instructions issued in your working environment. Take advantage of the vaccine as soon as it is offered, to protect yourself and those around you, and to avoid spreading the disease among the general population. In general, follow these instructions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, or coat them with an alcohol-based antiseptic (gel, foam or liquid). Products of this type should be kept out of the reach of children;
- Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth, which are where viruses enter the body;
- Cough and sneeze without contaminating your environment;
- Clean your environment with soap and water or household detergents;
- Avoid contact with sick people and their personal belongings;
- Protect yourself from the secretions of sick people and do not consume water or food they have touched; and
- Avoid contact with animals that appear to be ill, and avoid handling animals that have been found dead.
These measures are specified or supplemented by public health authorities according to the characteristics of the epidemic disease giving rise to the pandemic.
During a pandemic, take precautions
When a pandemic is announced, take the following precautions:
- Keep up to date with reliable sources of information;
- Gather essential items in a home care kit;
- Stock up on essentials;
- Explain to your children what’s going on and how to apply the protection rules;
- Agree with your loved ones or caregivers on a way to get help when you need it; and
- Offer your help to those around you who might need it (the elderly, the isolated, etc.).
If you fall ill
Pay close attention to the symptoms of the disease described in the media by authorized medical sources. In some cases, symptoms are different in children, adults and seniors.
When symptoms occur, follow the instructions of the medical authorities. Stay at home if you are ill, and keep sick children at home to avoid spreading the disease.
If your condition worsens, or if you are among those at risk of complications designated by public health authorities, call Info Santé at 811, consult a health professional or go to a hospital emergency room.
If special medical clinics have been opened by the health authorities to treat sick people, go to one of them for the appropriate care.
Source and reference for more information: Urgence Québec – Pandemic
See also: Public Health Agency of Canada – Pandemic Preparedness
