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Epidemics: how to prepare your home and family for a serious infectious disease

Prepare for an epidemic or pandemic: a practical guide

⏱ 2 min read

Vaccines, medicines, 2 weeks of supplies. A guide based on official advice. The same text is in the free SurvivalZone.app and works without internet.

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The COVID-19 pandemic showed that an infectious disease can change life across whole countries within weeks. Masks, disinfectant and some medicines ran short.

Preparing for an epidemic is like preparing for other crises, with a few elements of its own.

Health before an epidemic

  1. Check with your doctor that you and your children have the vaccinations recommended for your age and health. People with long-term illnesses should keep a supply of their medicines and a plan for getting more if visiting the surgery becomes difficult.

A kit for infectious illness

  1. A thermometer.
  2. Fever and pain relief for adults and children.
  3. FFP2 masks for the household.
  4. Disposable gloves and hand sanitiser.
  5. Oral rehydration salts for fever or diarrhoea.

Supplies for staying at home

  1. If you need to stay at home, a supply of food, water and everyday items for about two weeks helps. Do not panic-buy; build up the supply slowly and use it as you go.

Someone ill at home

  1. Decide which room can be used by the person who is ill, who looks after them and how to air the home. Save your local medical helpline number.

Information

  1. Use advice from your national public health agency, the ECDC and the WHO. During epidemics, false information about medicines and vaccines spreads fast.

Checklist

  1. Vaccinations up to date
  2. Supply of long-term medicines
  3. Thermometer and fever medicine
  4. FFP2 masks
  5. Hand sanitiser
  6. Supplies for about 2 weeks
  7. A room for someone who is ill
  8. Medical helpline number saved

See also

Frequently asked questions

How do I prepare for an epidemic?

Keep vaccinations up to date and have a supply of medicines, a thermometer, FFP2 masks, hygiene products and supplies for about two weeks.

Which masks protect best?

Well-fitted FFP2 masks protect best against viruses.

Where can I find reliable information during an epidemic?

From your national public health agency, the ECDC, the WHO and your own doctor.

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Sources

Official sources are checked automatically every day. Last check: 2026-11-04.

General guidance only; it does not replace the emergency services. If a life is in danger, call 112.