This season’s 25 must-have items

Peparing for a pandemic, such as a flu pandemic, is not unlike preparing for hurricane season. With a little planning, you and your family can be prepared for anything.

In the case of a pandemic, it’s likely stores will be closed, so here are items to have at home. It is recommended to have at least a two-week supply.

q Ready-to-eat canned food: meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, beans, and soups
q Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood-pressure monitoring
equipment
q Protein or fruit bars
q Soap and water, or alcohol-based (60-95%) hand wash
q Dry cereal or granola
q Medicines for fever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
q Peanut butter or nuts
q Thermometer
q Dried fruit
q Anti-diarrheal medication
q Crackers
q Vitamins
q Canned juices
q Fluids with electrolytes
q Bottled water
q Cleansing agent/soap
q Canned or jarred baby food and formula
q Flashlight
q Pet food
q Batteries
q Other non-perishable items
q Portable radio
q Manual can opener
q Garbage bags
q Tissues, toilet paper, disposable diapers

Visit www.pandemicflu.gov for for general information, planning and flu information.