12 June 2009
For immediate release

The Big P: Preparation, Not Panic

The swine flu pandemic’s official – and now Taranaki people are urged to consider another P word.

“That’s preparation, not panic,” says the region’s Civil Defence Controller, David Lean.

“As the number of H1N1 swine flu cases rises, a number of Taranaki people are likely to become ill and isolated in their homes for a week or so. Everyone needs to think about this now, and take simple, sensible steps to be better prepared.”

Mr Lean urges planning in four areas:

• Food and basic supplies – have at least seven days worth at home, or ensure that someone can get them to you. Don’t forget baby supplies, pet supplies, tissues and toilet rolls, and medication.
• Care of dependents – if you are unwell, what will happen to the people or pets you are responsible for? Make back-stop plans now. Remember that if schools have to close, children may need caring for.
• Essential services – will you have enough power and gas to last a week? You’ll need them for cooking, heating and phones.
• Social support – you may need help from other people if you are ill. Talk about this now with friends, family, neighbours or colleagues, or your church or community group. When you recover, you can help others who are sick.

“Today’s pandemic declaration by the World Health Organisation highlights the importance of preparedness,” says Mr Lean. “The value of this four-point checklist is obvious and it doesn’t take much effort to work through it.

“People always need to be prepared for any widespread adverse event, no matter what form it takes.”

Mr Lean says the Taranaki Civil Defence Emergency Management Group is supporting the Taranaki District Health Board, the lead agency dealing with the pandemic regionally.

People wanting more information can go to the DHB website, www.tdhb.org.nz, the Ministry of Health website, www.moh.govt.nz, or the Get Ready Get Thru website, www.getthru.govt.nz.

ENDS

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