A pandemic occurs when an infectious disease spreads across the globe. This is different than an epidemic, which is usually contained within a region or country.
The government coordinates with local public health units and healthcare providers to:
- track potential pandemics;
- stockpile and deploy drugs and protective equipment;
- manage emergency plans for delivering health care services;
- administer vaccines as these become available; and
- reduce pandemic-related disruptions to Yukon social and economic activity.
Yukon's pandemic plan
The government has a coordination plan for pandemic-related decision-making and actions.
Download Yukon's pandemic plan
Prepare yourself for a pandemic
Add these items to your home emergency kit:
- alcohol-based hand sanitizer that’s between 60 and 90% alcohol;
- medicines for headaches, coughs and fevers;
- thermometer; and
- drinks with electrolytes.
Stay healthy
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Eat a balanced diet, drink lots of water, get regular exercise and plenty of rest.
- Get your annual flu shot.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
If you're sick
Phone 811 or your health care provider.
- Keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.
- Stay home and you'll help prevent others from catching your illness.
- When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with your inner elbow or a tissue.
- Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that get touched a lot.