Health pandemic
A pandemic is when a virus spreads easily from person to person. It can happen at any time. Some people may only get mild symptoms, but others can seriously ill.
What can happen?
- hospitals and care services may become very busy
- staff shortages can cause problems for essential services
- people may feel worried or anxious
- businesses may close, which can affect people’s jobs and money
- more people may die than usual
- people may change how they behave
What can you do?
You can help protect yourself and others by following good hygiene:
- cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
- put used tissues in the bin and wash your hands
- wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If you can’t, use hand sanitiser
- clean surfaces like tables, door handles, and handrails often
- if you are ill, avoid contact with other people
Other important steps:
- make sure you and your family have all recommended vaccinations, especially if you are very vulnerable (for example, if you have a weak immune system, certain cancers, or an organ transplant)
- follow advice from the NHS, your local council, and the government
- know what your workplace and your child’s school will do during a pandemic
- if you run a business, have a plan for emergencies
- ask a friend who can collect your medicine, food, and supplies if you need to stay home
- if you are worried about your health and it is not an emergency, call 111 or visit 111 online
For more advice:
- visit the NHS website
- visit the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) website. UKHSA helps protect public health across England