Emergency preparedness means being ready if a disaster or emergency strikes.  It is important to know what we can expect, and how we will respond to a disaster before it happens.  This website was created to provide current information about the types of disasters we might face here in McHenry County and what we all can do now to be ready.

McHenry County Department of Health is taking steps to prepare and respond to emergencies, whether they are natural or manmade.  We are refining plans, practicing them, and conducting trainings for our staff and volunteers to improve our readiness.  Within this site you will find information and resources to learn more about potential threats facing our community and how we are preparing for these threats.

Every citizen has a role in emergency preparedness and can do something to make their families and communities safer, stronger and better prepared.  Emergency preparedness should be a priority for every citizen.  Even a small amount of preparation for an emergency can make a huge difference.  Being prepared saves lives.

Please Contact us if you would like any additional information regarding emergency planning and response.

SWINE FLU INFORMATION

• For information and updates regarding swine flu, please visit the following links:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/swineflu/

• Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH): www.idph.state.il.us/flu/swine_flu.htm

• McHenry County Department of Health (MCDH): www.mcdh.info

Please continue with your preparedness efforts. These steps can include:

Educating yourself, family, and friends: Education is key! Keep abreast of current happenings and make sure your family, friends, and co-workers know what is going on. Obtain your information from reliable sources.

Staying healthy: Follow standard flu prevention guidelines. Practice good hand hygiene, cough or sneeze into a tissue or your sleeve, avoid touching your eyes/nose/mouth, get rest, eat properly, stay at home if you are ill, and avoid other who are ill.

Stockpiling food and water: Maintain a two week or longer supply of food and water. Make sure that food items are non-perishable and are products that your family will actually use (include items for children and pets). This small stockpile may be necessary if supply chains are disrupted or if you are asked to stay at home.

Keeping health supplies on hand: Some items that may be helpful to have are non-prescription drugs, pain/fever relievers, fluids with electrolytes, vitamins, masks and gloves.

Pandemic Influenza Information Pandemic Preparedness Toolkits

McHenry County Online ~ MCDH Online

McHenry County Department of Health
2200 N Seminary Ave, Annex A
Woodstock, Illinois 60098

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