When stocking up on foods for a pandemic, however, remember the needs of those who are ill are different from those of the rest of the family. To prepare for illness you will want to add electrolyte replacement drinks to your storage. Rotate these as members of the family have normal colds, soar throats and the flu. I would stock those that can be used safely by both infants and adults. These can also be frozen into Popsicles. You get to the point when you are ill that you just can’t face another drink, but a Popsicle!
Remember the BRAT diet when planning your storage. Bananas, Rice, Applesauce and Toast. The BRAT diet is recommended for anyone with diarrhea, infant or adult. The bananas are difficult to store but the other items are easy. Now may be a good time to invest in a bread maker or, at the very least, bread pans. When there is a run on the stores bread and milk are always the first things to go.
Also include flavored gelatin mixes, canned soups, and broth in your stash. Ginger ale and lemon-lime sodas are also good to settle an upset stomach. They serve a second purpose as children will think they are a great treat, a great incentive for kids to be good when they are bored because they are stuck in the house.
Don’t forget the needs of your pets. Store food, water and medications for them as you would any other member of the family.
Stock up on prescription drugs to insure a continuous supply in your home. You may ask your doctor if he has samples or can help you prepare. I have picked up my prescriptions early on occasion and saved the pills that were left until I have accumulated an extra month’s supply. I then use the old and save the new each month.
Stock up on first aid supplies. Purchase nonprescription drugs including pain and fever relievers, stomach remedies, anti diarrhea medications, and cough and cold medicines and preventive medications. Have anti bacterial wipes on hand for cleaning up after attending to a patient. Hand sanitizers should also be included in your first aid supplies. These should be used every time you are with someone who is ill or after you shake hands with anyone. Make sure you also have a few thermometers on hand and alcohol to clean them. I dropped a thermometer a few years ago and broke it. You don't want to be caught without. Medical gloves are also essential.
Include N95 particulate face masks. These will help prevent the transfer of germs as you are in public or caring for a loved one. There are many types of medical masks. The surgical variety will provide added protection from fluids. These are especially valuable when you are caring for someone who is sweating, sneezing or vomiting. I would store some of each type. For best protection these need to fit firmly against the face. If you are using masks for children place the mask on the face and them a bandanna over the mask. It can be like dress up! Make sure you remove the bandanna and place it directly into the washer when you return home. Then, discard the mask, preferably outside, and wash your child’s hands, face and exposed skin thoroughly with a hand sanitizer. I have heard people advise that masks do not need to be stored because they cannot be fitted tightly enough to the face. As long as hospitals, police and fire departments, and schools are stocking up with supplies on hand for all their staff and students I am stocking face masks. When they no longer consider it important I will stop. Until then, I believe it is important.
Other non-food necessities are also essential. Paper plates, cup, bowls, and utensils will cut down on the possibility that germs will be passed as meals are cleared.