Te Mate Urutā Pandemic
A pandemic happens when an infectious disease spreads across many countries and affects many people. Pandemics can greatly impact health, society, and the economy, disrupting everyday life and putting pressure on health services.
While pandemics are uncommon, the recent COVID-19 outbreak showed us how important it is to be prepared, and how pandemics can impact daily life (such as lockdowns, reduced services and restrictions). By understanding the risks, preparing ahead, and following health guidelines, we can help slow the spread of disease and keep our communities safe.
Preparing for a Pandemic
Preparation is key to minimising the impacts of a pandemic on your health, household, and community. Here’s how you can prepare:
- Practise good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, use hand sanitizers when soap is unavailable, and cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow or tissue. This can prevent the spread of germs in everyday life.
- Prepare a household plan: Plan for what your family will do if someone gets sick. Discuss who will care for them and how you will prevent illness from spreading in your home.
- Work and school arrangements: Know your workplace’s plan for pandemics and think about how to handle school or workplace closures.
If a pandemic is declared, it’s important you follow official advice:
- Follow health guidelines: Stick to official recommendations about social distancing, wearing masks, and practising good hygiene. Follow quarantine or isolation rules if asked.
- Limit social contact: Reduce in-person interactions with people outside your household to lower the risk of spreading the disease.
- Monitor mental health: Being isolated or stressed for a long time can affect your mental well-being. Stay connected with loved ones, keep a daily routine, and seek mental health support if needed.
Once a pandemic is under control, it's important to be cautious and support recovery efforts:
- Vaccination and health checks: If a vaccine is available, get vaccinated to protect yourself and others. Continue following health advice about testing and preventive care.
- Connect with others: Reach out to family, friends, and your community as restrictions ease. Stay mindful of health advice and keep taking precautions where necessary.