Urgent Notice: Managing Your Health During Wildfire Conditions
Date: 02/29/24
In response to the recent wildfires affecting the Texas Panhandle and the declaration of disaster by the governor, we are committed to supporting our members, particularly those with asthma and other respiratory conditions. The health and safety of our members is our top priority. We aim to provide you with essential information and resources to manage your health effectively.
For members who have had to evacuate:
We understand that evacuating your home can be a stressful experience, especially with concerns about getting healthcare services and medications. We are here to support you:
- Medication assistance: If you need help getting medications due to evacuation, please contact us at 1-866-768-7147 for immediate assistance.
- Temporary accommodations: For information on temporary housing or emergency shelters, please refer to local emergency management websites, use findhelp, or call Member Services using Superior’s phone directory.
- Case Management services: If you are in Case Management and have been evacuated, please call Member Services using Superior’s phone directory to update us on your situation and discuss your needs.
For members with asthma and other respiratory concerns:
- Follow your asthma action plan: Your asthma action plan is more important than ever. If you do not have an action plan, please contact your healthcare provider.
- Keep medications handy: Ensure you have a supply of your respiratory medicines. This includes quick-relief inhalers.
- Monitor your health: Watch for any symptoms of respiratory distress. Symptoms include increased coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness or wheezing. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if your symptoms worsen.
For all members
- Stay informed: Stay updated with local air quality reports and news for ongoing instructions related to wildfire and smoke conditions. Check your local news and emergency management department websites for evacuation routes and site.
- Stay indoors: Keep doors and windows closed to limit exposure to smoke. If you have air purifiers, use them to clean the indoor air. If you need to go outside, wearing an N95 respirator mask is recommended to filter out harmful particles.
These are trying times for everyone affected by the wildfires. Superior is here to support you in any way we can. For more information, contact Member Services using Superior’s phone directory.
Stay safe and take care of each other.
Resources:
- Asthma Management: The Superior website provides tips for asthma management, especially in conditions of smoke and poor air quality.
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Wildfire Smoke Guide: The CDC offers information on protecting yourself and your loved ones from the effects of wildfire smoke.
- Minimizing the Effects of Wildfire Smoke: Information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency on reducing health impacts due to wildfire smoke.