On June 9, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) said a “spike” in swine flu cases in Australia and possibly Canada (that is, the unusual swine/avian/human flu that emerged this spring), “may push it to finally announce the first flu pandemic in 41 years.” Be aware that a “pandemic” decision is based on the extent of the spread of the virus, not on great numbers of affected people. In fact, great numbers have not been affected so far, and relatively few deaths have resulted. Media fear-mongering persists, though, and vaccines are being readied and stockpiled internationally. If (or perhaps “when”) mass vaccinations are recommended or mandated, inevitably some percentage of those vaccinated will shed live viruses, and thus the very epidemic the vaccine is supposed to prevent may well occur, unless strict measures are undertaken. What greatly reduces the incidence and spread of infectious disease is public awareness, improved hygiene and an immune-strengthening diet.

Those who prefer to take preventive measures to maintain health; those who prefer to remain at home during a flu “emergency,” rather than be confined by public officials in a facility; and those who would like to avoid vaccines which historically have not proven effective, may be interested to learn about voluntary self-quarantining during pandemics.

“Quarantine,” as defined by the Centers for Disease Control, means the separation and restriction of movement of well persons who may have been exposed to a communicable disease to see if they become ill within a certain period of time. If no illness manifests during that time, then the persons are permitted free movement. “Isolation” refers to the separation and restriction of movement of some who is already ill. The Department of Defense, in its past policies, has allowed for quarantine at home. Such quarantine may be voluntary (“self-quarantine”) or mandatory. Times have changed, though, and what legislative and Homeland Security decisions may be in future, no one can be certain, but we present some basic information pertaining to self-quarantining here, should it be an option.

“Self-quarantining” simply means to elect to stay home to avoid exposure to a virus and keep oneself from possibly transmitting a virus to another. This is especially important for those who elect not to be vaccinated, because they may be accused of being “threats to public safety” for their decision. It means announcing that decision by posting a sign on the front door, “Quarantine.” No family members leave, and visitors are allowed in, except for medical personnel. There is no harm in going into one’s back yard or onto one’s back porch; the idea is to stay away from people that may be carrying the virus, and even pets or animals, depending on the viral vector.

Self-quarantining is not a simple choice. One must “count the cost,” which can be both social and financial. One may feel cut off from family and friends. Also, one will need to have prepared food, water, and other necessary supplies for each household member, including pets, in order to remain home for an extended period. Indeed, food supplies may be interrupted, anyway, and other services and supplies as well, depending upon the severity and duration of the outbreak. One needs to be aware that decisions to self-quarantine may put jobs on the line. Unless work can be done from home, self-quarantining may not even be an option, and companies may require—or be mandated to require—that all employees be vaccinated. 

The eight laws of health will serve people well in adverse times as well as good times. It makes sense to strengthen your immune system at all times, to combat any attacks on your health. Become informed about natural remedies to deal with the flu. During the Spanish flu pandemic, very few who went to osteopathic or homeopathic hospitals died, compared to those attending military hospitals, where the death rates were significantly higher. Finally, do not let fear or stress weaken your health or your faith. Let the “perfect love” of God for you, and of you for God, “cast out fear.” 1 John 4:18. Let knowledge of health principles given us by heaven’s providence serve you and others well.

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