Pandemics and outbreaks

Before

Ready.gov:

• Learn how diseases spread.
• Prepare for schools, workplaces, and community centers to close, including telework and virtual school.
• Gather supplies for several days or weeks: cleaning supplies, non-perishable food, prescriptions, and bottled water.
• Review what your health insurance covers, including telemedicine.
• Make password-protected digital copies of important documents.
• Watch for scams.

During

Ready.gov:

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol when soap isn't available.
• Keep at least six feet from people outside your household.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a mask in public.
• Clean high-touch surfaces.
• Stay home when sick, except to get medical care.
• If you think you've been exposed, contact your doctor and follow quarantine instructions.
• Share only accurate information.
• Feeling anxious is normal. Stay connected by video or phone and talk to someone.

After

Update your family plan.

Talk with your community about the lessons learned.

Official guidance changes as a specific disease is understood. For a real outbreak, the CDC and your state health department outrank this page.