- stay informed by following official advice from the government and NHS websites - visit the NHS North East and Yorkshire website or the Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board website. If you suffer from hearing loss you can call 18001 111
- get vaccinated - keep up to date with routine and seasonal vaccines
- plan ahead:
- keep a supply of essentials like food, medicines, and cleaning products
- make a list of emergency contacts
- work arrangements - know your employer’s remote working policy
- community support - check in on neighbours who may need help
Human and animal health
Human health
Infectious diseases like the flu or Coronavirus have the potential to cause a huge impact to public health. These may occur in outbreaks, epidemics or pandemics:
- outbreak - this is a small but noticeable increase in cases in one area, for example flu or measles
- epidemic - is a bigger spread across a larger area. This may be from a known virus or the early stages of a new virus which may become a pandemic
- pandemic - an epidemic becomes a pandemic when it reaches multiple countries
Pandemics can strain health services, disrupt businesses, and affect everyday life as it did during the Covid pandemic.
Be ready for a health pandemic
Stay safe during a health pandemic
- wash hands often with soap and water
- keep indoor spaces ventilated
- wear a face covering in crowded or enclosed places
- stay at home if you feel unwell
- call 111 the NHS non-emergency helpline for medical advice if needed
Animal health
Animal diseases like bird flu, foot and mouth, or bluetongue can spread quickly among livestock. Some can also infect humans.
These outbreaks can harm farming, the food chain supply, and the economy.
Be ready for an animal disease outbreak
- if you keep animals:
- register livestock and land with the Rural Payments Agency on the government website and the Animal and Plant Health Agency on the government website
- keep farm records up to date
- follow biosecurity rules, for example for cleaning equipment, disinfecting footwear
- stay informed - view information on animal disease prevention on the government website. You can also sign up for animal disease alerts from the Animal and Plant Health Agency on the government website
- plan for restrictions as outbreaks could cause movement bans or housing orders for poultry
Stay safe during an animal disease outbreak
- do not touch sick or dead animals
- report dead wild birds to Defra on 03459 335577
- wash hands thoroughly after contact with animals or farm environments
- avoid eating or drinking near animals
- if you feel unwell after visiting a farm, call NHS 111