Emergency Management

Pandemics & Public Health Emergencies

A public health emergency exists when the ordinary health service capabilities of a community are overwhelmed by an extreme situation or event. Emergency preparedness is that aspect of public health designed to ensure sustained public health and medical readiness in the event of an emergency, minimize the impact of emergencies on affected communities, and foster safe and healthful environments before, during, and after an emergency.¹

When a new kind of influenza (flu) virus, corona virus or other virus appears for which there is no immunity and no existing vaccine, it can spread rapidly from person to person and country to country. This rapid spread of infection is called a pandemic. Pandemics occur several times each century and can range in severity from the 2009 H1N1 pandemic to the crippling 1918 flu pandemic and the 2019 COVID-19 pandemic.

The public can take an active role in preparing for public health emergencies and pandemics by taking the following actions:

Stay Healthy

• Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet
• Stay up to date on vaccinations
• Exercise regularly
• Maintain the batteries and functionality of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
• Learn first aid and CPR
• Take care of your mental health and practice self-care

Stay Connected

• Create an Emergency Action Plan that includes important phone numbers and at least two emergency meeting places, where your family can reunite if separated by an emergency.
• Have back-up charging and alternative power sources for your mobile phone. Invest in a car charger, backup batteries, and power banks.
• Download apps and join social networks specific to your neighborhood/community.
• Update your social media statuses/feeds with information about your location and well-being after an emergency.

Stay Informed

• Sign up with your local emergency management office to receive emergency alerts and notifications.
• Parents: ask your child's school/daycare for a copy of their emergency evacuation, parent communication, and family reunification plans.
• Know and have records of your vaccination history.
• Review CDC travel notices before and during travel.
• Beware of rumors and misinformation, especially on social media. Friend and follow verified sources of reliable public health information on social media.
• Know where to find and how to use fire extinguishers and AEDs.

For more information about public health emergencies or pandemics, visit:

• https://www.ready.gov/pandemic
• https://emergency.cdc.gov/hazards-specific.asp
• https://www.doh.wa.gov/YouandYourFamily/IllnessandDisease/Flu/Pandemicflu

¹ Source: https://www.thehastingscenter.org/briefingbook/disaster-planning-and-public-health/