As Saint Lucia continues to prepare its response to the global pandemic of COVID-19, public health officials continue to make recommendations to household members on ways to prepare for a possible outbreak of the disease in the community.
Family Life Educator of the Bureau of Health Education Janelle Alexander-Dupre says it is important that a household plan of action is created to help with protecting the health of family members and those they care for.
“Families should create a household plan of action in case of an emergency. The plan should be discussed with all family members, friends and ensuring that the household members know exactly what part of the plan that they have to do. The plan should have an emergency contact list with all family members, friends and health care providers and should also know where all the different respiratory clinics are located.”
Alexander-Dupre also placed great focus on the need for Saint Lucians to be ready and ensure their households have sufficient supplies in the event of a possible outbreak of COVID-19 in the community.
“We should ensure that there is adequate supply of canned and dried foods, gas, water and cleaning supplies such as bleach and have paper towels at hand. We should also put in place a first aid kit with medications for persons who may be ill and also medication for persons with chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. We should ensure that the medication is not less than a month supply. We also ensure that there is enough cash at home to reduce travel to different areas and interaction with persons.”
Saint Lucians are once again encouraged to be prepared and stay informed about COVID-19.