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SECURE YOUR MEDICINES THIS HURRICANE SEASON

SECURE YOUR MEDICINES THIS HURRICANE SEASON

July 2, 20151595Views

Users of pharmaceuticals are being advised to take the necessary precautions to
safeguard their medicines in the event of a hurricane which could limit access to additional supplies.

Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services Mrs. Gracia Wheatley-Smith said
while persons are preparing their homes and disaster kits in preparation for potential hurricane impact, they should also examine their medicine supply.  She said
persons must be aware of what to do before, during and after the impact of a
hurricane as it pertains to keeping their medicines secured.

Mrs. Wheatley-Smith said, “Persons should have at least one extra month’s
supply of medicines and asthmatics should refill their inhalers in the event of
an impact on health facilities which might render them unable to serve the
public immediately after the impact. Parents should also ensure that a
sufficient stock of fever reducing and pain relieving medicines for children are
on hand.”

Mrs. Wheatley-Smith advised that pharmacists must be asked to dispense
medicines in the amber screw top or snap lid containers and not medicine bags.
She added that a list of all the medications currently in use must be kept and
should include the name of the medicine, the dosage and frequency, the
physician’s name and number, and the number of the pharmacy where the
prescription was filled, in the event the information is needed in an
emergency.

She added, “If persons vacate their homes before or during the storm
please ensure that you take your medicines with you.  Medicines should be placed
in zip-locked plastic bags and kept away from potential flood areas.”

She noted too that if water penetrates the package, after the storm has passed
the medicine should be taken to the pharmacy to be replaced.

Mrs. Wheatley-Smith further advised that insulin should not be stored near
heat generating appliances and must be kept out of the sunlight.   She said
persons should also be careful to avoid freezing insulin if ice is being used
for storage when electricity is off.

The public can contact the Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services at
telephone 468-4398 for more information on securing medicines during the
hurricane season.