Preparing for a Pandemic

Education and outreach are critical to preparing for a pandemic. Understanding what a pandemic is, what needs to be done at all levels to prepare for pandemic influenza, and what could happen during a pandemic will help everyone make informed decisions.

The Macon County Health Department is actively planning and preparing with state and city government agencies for a possible pandemic, along with planning and preparing for any other possible public health emergency.

However, as stated in the recently published National Strategy for Pandemic Influenza, “Private citizens must recognize and understand the degree to which their personal actions will govern the course of a pandemic. The success or failure of infection control measures is ultimately dependent upon the acts of individuals.

A series of checklists have been prepared to help guide individual and corporate efforts. To view the checklists - Pan Flu Checklist.

The effects of a pandemic can be lessened if everyone – federal, state, county and city entities along with individuals, families and businesses – make plans and execute preparations in advance of an influenza outbreak.