Useful Info (Original Patient Education) JASE Medical

How to Make an Emergency Plan for Your Household

The Importance of Timely Antibiotic Intervention

Planning is the difference between panic, and preparedness.

How to Make an Emergency Plan for Your Household

When disaster strikes, the difference between panic and composure often comes down to one thing: preparation. While we can’t predict emergencies, we can certainly be ready for them. This guide will walk you through creating a thorough emergency preparedness plan, ensuring you and your loved ones are equipped to face whatever emergencies you may encounter.

Assess Your Unique Needs

The first step in crafting your emergency plan is to assess your specific needs. Consider the natural disasters most likely to occur in your area. Are you in a hurricane zone? Tornado alley? Or perhaps wildfire country? Each scenario requires different preparations.

Key factors to consider:

Types of potential emergencies in your region (e.g., hurricanes, floods, tornadoes)
Special needs within your household:
- Seniors
- People with disabilities
- Infants and young children
- Pets
Medical and dietary requirements

Family Communication and Meeting Points

In the chaos of an emergency, communication is crucial. Start by establishing meeting locations and a robust family communication strategy.

Choose two family meeting spots:
- Close to home for sudden emergencies (e.g., house fire)
- Outside your neighborhood in case of evacuation
Develop an emergency contact plan:

- Designate an out-of-state contact as your family’s emergency coordinator
- Ensure everyone has this contact’s information saved in their phones and written down
- List emergency contacts as “I.C.E.” (In Case of Emergency) in cellphones
- Use text messages when appropriate as they can often get through when calls can’t.
- Establish a family group chat, or use a family communication app

Plan Your Evacuation Strategy

Knowing how to get out of harm’s way is crucial. Your evacuation plan should be thorough and well-practiced.

Plan and practice multiple evacuation routes from your home and neighborhood
Identify modes of transportation and make arrangements if you lack personal transport
Decide on potential destinations:

- Hotels/motels
- Homes of friends or relatives a safe distance away
- Evacuation shelters

Keep a list of pet-friendly hotels and shelters along your evacuation routes
Practice evacuating your home twice a year:

- Grab your emergency kit
- Drive your planned evacuation route
- Plot alternate routes on your map in case roads are impassable

Prepare for Sheltering in Place

Sometimes, evacuation isn’t the safest option. For scenarios like severe weather or airborne hazards, you might need to shelter in place.

Designate safe rooms in your home with:
- Few windows or doors
- Access to TV, radio, and phones for updates

Ensure you can access necessary supplies and your emergency kit
If you receive medical treatments or home health care services, work with your provider to determine how to maintain care if you’re unable to leave home for a period of time

Develop a Broader Communication Strategy

Beyond your immediate family, it’s important to know how to communicate with local authorities, emergency services, and your community during a crisis.

Learn how to receive local emergency alerts and warnings (radio, TV, text, emergency alert systems)
Keep a list of important phone numbers easily accessible:
- Local police and fire departments
- Nearby hospitals
- Local emergency management office
- Local utilities
Understand how to contact emergency services if 911 is unavailable
Know your community’s emergency communication plan and evacuation routes
Consider joining or following local community emergency response teams on social media
Learn how to use the American Red Cross Safe and Well website to let extended family and friends know you’re safe
If you have a landline, keep a non-cordless phone in your home, as it may work even when the power is out

Assign Responsibilities

A well-executed plan requires everyone to play their part. Assign roles and responsibilities to each family member.

Give each family member age-appropriate tasks for various emergency scenarios
Discuss how you will work together as a team
Consider how you will assist family members with special needs or disabilities

Stay Informed and Prepared

Knowledge and preparation are your best defenses in an emergency.

Familiarize yourself with emergency plans at work, school, or daycare
If no plans exist in these places, volunteer to help develop them
Prepare an emergency kit with essentials to help you survive for at least 72 hours
Document your plan, writing down detailed instructions for each type of emergency scenario
Use online resources like the American Red Cross form to help document your plan

Practice and Update Your Plan

A plan is only as good as its execution. Regular practice and updates are crucial.

Run through your emergency plan at least 2-3 times a year
Update the plan as needed after each practice session
Review your plan annually
Replace expired items in your kit
Adjust your plan as your family’s needs change

Don’t Forget Your Pets

Our furry family members need to be included in all aspects of emergency planning.

Include pet supplies in your emergency kit
Ensure your pets are microchipped and wearing collars with up-to-date information
Plan for their evacuation needs, including carriers or crates if necessary

Remember, if it’s not safe for you, it’s not safe for your pets either.

Creating an emergency preparedness plan may seem daunting, but it’s essential in ensuring your family’s safety. Take it one step at a time, involve all family members in the process, and remember to review and update your plan regularly. With proper preparation, you can face whatever emergencies or disasters that come your way with confidence.

Keep yourself and your family prepared for potential emergencies by having a Jase Case on hand before you need it.

Tune in next week for the next part in our National Preparedness Month series where we will go over in detail how to build an emergency kit with food, water, medical essentials, important documents, and much more!

As always, stay safe, stay healthy, and stay prepared.

– Your partners in preparedness: Jase.com

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Order Today

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What to Do if Your Medication is Out of Stock?

You depend on your medications, but what if you can’t get them?

Navigating Prescription Stockouts

Being prepared could save your life.

In recent years, prescription drug shortages have become an increasingly common and distressing problem for patients across the United States. From essential antibiotics to life-sustaining cancer medications, shortages can affect a wide range of drugs, leaving those affected feeling vulnerable, anxious, and unsure of where to turn for help.

The causes of drug shortages are multifaceted and often deeply entrenched in the complex realities of the pharmaceutical industry. Manufacturing issues, quality control problems, and production delays can all disrupt the supply chain, while financial incentives may drive companies to prioritize certain products over others, leading to scarcity of less profitable drugs.

For anyone caught in the middle of these shortages, the impact can be profound. Suddenly, the medications you rely on to manage chronic conditions, treat acute illnesses, or even survive life-threatening diseases may be unavailable or in critically short supply. The resulting stress, uncertainty, and potential health risks can be overwhelming.

If you find yourself facing a medication shortage, it’s essential to remember that you have options and advocates who can help you navigate this challenging situation. Here are some key strategies to consider:

Don’t hesitate to speak up: Your healthcare team is your first line of support during a drug shortage. Inform your doctor and pharmacist as soon as you encounter difficulty filling your prescription. They can work with you to identify alternative medications, adjust dosages, or develop short-term management plans to bridge the gap until your regular drug becomes available again.

Explore therapeutic alternatives: In many cases, there may be other drugs within the same therapeutic class that can provide similar benefits to your prescribed medication. Your doctor can help you determine if a substitute is appropriate based on your specific medical needs, and can write a new prescription or authorize insurance coverage changes if necessary.

Tap into expert resources: Organizations like the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and the FDA maintain detailed databases of current and resolved drug shortages. These resources can provide valuable information on the reasons behind a shortage, estimated resupply timelines, and suggested therapeutic alternatives.

| In 2024, there has steadily been about 300 medications in short supply according to the ASHP |

Investigate assistance programs: Often the generic versions of medications are in higher demand due to affordability, and thus go out of stock more quickly. If you’re struggling to afford a brand-name medication that is in stock, check the manufacturer’s website for patient assistance programs, co-pay savings cards, or other financial support options. Many pharmaceutical companies offer these resources to help eligible patients access needed drugs at a reduced cost.

Embrace proactive planning: While navigating an active shortage is crucial, taking steps to prepare for future supply disruptions can provide valuable peace of mind. Consider keeping an emergency supply of your essential medications in a dedicated solution like the Jase Case. The Jase Case comes with 5 life saving emergency medications to treat the most common illness and infections you’re likely to encounter, and can be further customized with 28 additional meds to treat an expansive array of conditions, and can be a critical buffer when essential emergency prescriptions may be out of stock at your regular pharmacy.

For medications you take regularly for chronic conditions, a service like Jase Daily can be a game-changer. By providing an extended supply of your daily medications delivered right to your door, Jase Daily helps you stay ahead of potential shortages and ensures you always have a few extra months of your prescriptions

Leverage technology and online resources: In the digital age, patients have access to a wealth of online resources and support communities that can provide valuable information and guidance during a drug shortage. From patient forums and social media groups to mobile apps that track drug availability and prices, these tools can help you stay informed, connect with others facing similar challenges, and discover alternative solutions you may not have considered.

By tapping into the collective knowledge and experience of these online communities, you can gain new insights, share your own strategies, and find much-needed support and encouragement as you navigate the uncertainties of a drug shortage.

Advocate for change: While individual strategies can help patients weather the immediate challenges of drug shortages, long-term solutions require systemic change. Engaging with patient advocacy organizations, sharing your experiences with elected officials, and supporting policies that prioritize patient needs over profits can all contribute to a more stable, transparent, and equitable pharmaceutical supply chain.

Prescription drug shortages can be a source of immense frustration, anxiety, and vulnerability for patients who depend on these medications to maintain their health and quality of life. However, by arming yourself with knowledge, leveraging the expertise of your healthcare team, and embracing proactive strategies like the Jase Case and Jase Daily, you can navigate even the most challenging shortages with greater confidence and resilience.

Remember, you are your own best advocate. Don’t hesitate to speak up, ask questions, and explore every possible avenue to access the medications you need. With persistence, creativity, and the support of your healthcare community, you can overcome the obstacles of drug shortages and stay focused on what matters most: your health and well-being.

Keep yourself prepared for the potential of out of stock pharmacies by having a Jase Case on hand, before you need it.

As always, stay safe, stay healthy, and stay prepared.

– Your partners in preparedness: Jase.com

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Order Today

Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!

Mpox: Unpacking the Facts That Matter

Global health warnings are being issued, but you likely aren’t at risk.

Mpox: What You Need To Know

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have both recently released warnings declaring mpox a global health emergency.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that is in the same family as the smallpox virus (although names are similar, this virus is not related to chickenpox). Mpox is endemic in parts of Central and West Africa, where it is evident in wild animals like monkeys, rodents, and prairie dogs. Humans can contract this virus through direct contact with infected animals while eating, hunting, trapping or otherwise interacting with them. Mpox has been around for decades, but in the past few years it has made headlines during increased outbreaks.

There are two different types, or “clades”, of mpox. Clade II was responsible for the global outbreak in 2022 and is generally transmitted from animals to humans, usually by eating bushmeat of an infected animal or other prolonged animal contact. The current global health warning refers to a Clade I variant which is a newer strain that causes more severe disease with a higher death rate. It also appears to have a mutation which can be transmitted from human to human. Clade I is often spread person-to-person via sexual contact, face-to-face contact (or prolonged close contact like cuddling, kissing, or hugging), or via contaminated bedding, clothes, or towels.

Mpox causes an illness that causes flu-like symptoms, fever, chills, body aches, headache, and exhaustion accompanied by a rash. The rash initially looks like pimples or blisters and can be itchy or painful. Most people who contract this disease will recover with supportive care, but certain groups of people with weakened immune systems, like infants, pregnant women, etc. are more likely to have severe disease.

Because this is a viral disease, there is no “cure”, but there is a vaccine for prevention and one oral medication available for treatment. The mpox vaccine is a two-dose series for people at high risk of contracting the disease or for people who have had close contact with someone suspected of having mpox. Oral TPOXX (tecovirimat) is an experimental medication that is still being tested in humans with mpox to see if it is safe and effective. TPOXX is the only FDA-approved medication available for smallpox treatment and animal studies show promise in treated mpox. This is a prescription medication, but is not available at regular pharmacies at this point. Check with your medical provider to determine if you meet criteria for the vaccination.

While it is still important to be aware of any global health warning, at this point, the risk of the clade I mpox variant to the United States is considered to be low. Due in part to the limited number of travelers and direct flights from Central and West Africa to the US, but also because the US has access to extensive testing and medical interventions compared to the rural African countries most affected at this time.

As always, stay safe, stay healthy, and stay prepared.

– Your partners in preparedness: Jase.com

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Order Today

Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!

Drug Shortages: Causes & Solutions

While things are being done at the national level to combat global shortages, there’s more individuals can do at home.

The Complexities of Prescription Drug Shortages

Prescription drug shortages have reached unprecedented levels in recent years, disrupting the supply of essential medicines such as, antibiotics, cancer chemotherapies, ADHD medications, and diabetes and weight-loss treatments. These shortages compromise patient care, strain healthcare resources, and place an economic burden on the system. Here we’ll explore the multiple reasons behind drug shortages and examine the efforts being made to ensure patients have continuous access to the medications they need.

Understanding Drug Shortages

A drug shortage occurs when either the actual demand or projected demand for a medication exceeds the available supply. According to the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), active drug shortages in the US reached an all-time high of 323 during the first quarter of 2024, surpassing the previous record set in 2014. The situation is similarly dire in the UK, with the British Generic Manufacturers Association reporting a 100% increase in medicine shortages between January 2022 and January 2024.

Causes of Drug Shortages

Sudden Demand Spikes: Unexpected increases in disease prevalence, such as the rise in Strep A cases among UK children in 2022, lead to a surge in demand for children’s antibiotics. Only a year later, a drastic shortage of children’s antibiotics hit the U.S. in the beginning of the school year in 2023. Each year we face an amoxicillin shortage leading up to and into the start of the school year. Safeguard your kids from these shortages with a KidCase (which includes amoxicillin).
Manufacturing and Quality Issues: Recalls, quality problems, or failed regulatory inspections can cause sudden drops in supply. For example, when Indian manufacturer Intas failed a US FDA inspection in 2023, it triggered a nationwide shortage of cisplatin and carboplatin cancer chemotherapies.
Raw Material Shortages: Scarcity of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) or delivery mechanisms can contribute to drug shortages. The geographic concentration of API manufacturing in China and India heightens the risk of global supply disruptions.
Economic Factors: Extreme price competition among generic manufacturers can undermine investment in manufacturing capacity, quality assurance, and supply chain reliability. Lower-priced drugs are more likely to experience shortages due to a lack of incentives for production.
Natural Disasters and Geopolitical Events: Incidents like the 2023 tornado that hit a Pfizer plant in the US can destroy manufacturing facilities. Geopolitical factors such as Brexit, the Ukraine-Russia war, and the Covid-19 pandemic have also significantly impacted drug supplies.

| In the first quarter of 2024, drug shortages in the U.S. hit an all time high, surpassing the previous record set in 2014. |

Protocols for Managing Shortages

Many countries have established national reporting systems to facilitate communication about drug shortages. In the US, manufacturers can notify the FDA Drug Shortage Staff via a web portal, and the FDA’s list is updated daily. The FDA works with manufacturers to address shortages and may seek alternative suppliers or importation of products. Also, the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) maintains an up to date list of current drug shortages.

Similarly, in the UK, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) liaises with manufacturers, alternative suppliers, and wholesalers to secure additional supplies. The DHSC has also introduced serious shortage protocols (SSPs) to allow pharmacists to offer alternative products when items are in short supply.

Regulatory agencies like the FDA and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) can take various actions to mitigate shortages, but these are often controversial. Such actions can include: expediting approval processes, granting temporary labeling exemptions, and allowing the importation of unlicensed medicines.

Efforts to Prevent Future Shortages

Critical Medicines List: In addition to the FDA and ASHP drug shortage lists maintained in the U.S., the European Medicines Agency (EMA) published a list of over 200 critical medicines to prioritize for shortage prevention. The list will be expanded and updated annually.
Supply Chain Resilience Recommendations: The EMA has gone a step further by issuing recommendations for global suppliers to address vulnerabilities in the production and delivery of critical medicines. These include stockpiling, reviewing past shortages to identify demand patterns, and increasing manufacturing capacity.
Policy Solutions: Legislators in the U.S. have proposed funding domestic manufacturing to combat supply chain issues. The Senate Finance Committee has drafted a bill to incentivize hospital contracting practices that ensure adequate drug supplies.
Appointment of Supply Chain Coordinator: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has appointed a supply chain resilience and shortage coordinator to lead efforts in strengthening critical medical supply chains.

In summary

Prescription drug shortages pose a significant challenge to healthcare systems and patients worldwide. The interplay of factors, from sudden demand spikes and manufacturing issues to economic pressures and geopolitical events, requires broad and collaborative approach to ensure patients have uninterrupted access to essential medicines. While national reporting systems, regulatory actions, and policy initiatives aim to mitigate the impact of shortages, more work is clearly needed to address the root causes and build resilience in the global pharmaceutical supply chain.

One thing that individuals can do to hedge against supply shortages and medication availability is have their own supply. Maintaining a personal supply of emergency medications like antibiotics and treatments for sudden illnesses is both prudent and possible. That is why we make the Jase Case—for these unpredictable circumstances.

Additionally, our Jase Daily service can provide you an extended supply of your daily medications for chronic conditions, offering a larger quantity than is typically available through your local physician and pharmacy.

Give yourself the peace of mind you deserve.

– Your partners in preparedness: Jase.com

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Order Today

Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!

Common Back to School Illnesses

Diligent hygiene is key to preventing most illnesses kids get, but when that’s not enough, medication intervention is common and recommended.

10 Most Common Back to School Illnesses & Physician Recommended Medications

As kids go back to school for the year, most parents expect them to bring home empty lunch boxes, homework, and permission slips, but inevitably they will also bring home an illness. While these illnesses are usually mild, they can often lead to missed school days for your child and missed work days for the caretaker as well as the potential for other people in the family to get sick.

As you prepare new clothes and school supplies for your child, make sure you and your family are also prepared for the sick season as it approaches. Make sure to discuss and emphasize frequent and appropriate hand washing, discourage sharing food/drinks, avoid touching your face, and cover your mouth with a tissue or your elbow if you sneeze or cough, etc. In addition to these basic hygiene measures, consider stocking your medicine cabinet and acquiring a Jase Case* for yourself and your children so you are prepared when illness occurs.

*Always discuss with a medical provider prior to taking any prescription medications. Not all medications listed below are available in all cases and may not be appropriate in all situations.

| Each year about 3 million kids aged 5-17 miss 15 or more school days due to health-related reasons. |

Common Cold

This is one of the most frequent illnesses children get at schools. Colds are caused by different viruses that are easily spread through close-contact environments, like schools and daycares. While there is no cure for the common cold, you can use over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), or cough medications (if age appropriate for your child) to help manage symptoms like fever, body aches, headaches, and cough. Reminder: children should avoid taking Aspirin as it can lead to a rare, but serious condition known as Reye’s disease.

Medications available in the Jase Case: acetaminophen, ibuprofen

Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)

The stomach flu (not to be confused with influenza, or flu) is also caused by a virus that can spread rapidly through schools and families. Symptoms of the stomach flu usually include nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea. There is also no cure for this illness but symptoms can be managed with rest, fluid and electrolyte replenishment, and over-the-counter and prescription medications depending on symptoms.

Medications available in the Jase Case: loperamide, ondansetron

Strep Throat

Strep throat is caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes. Symptoms are usually swollen tonsils, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and occasionally abdominal pain. Since this illness is caused by a bacteria, strep needs an antibiotic for treatment after the diagnosis has been confirmed by a medical provider.

Medications available in the Jase Case: amoxicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, azithromycin, cephalexin, clindamycin

Influenza (flu)

Influenza, or the “flu”, is caused by a virus that is easily spread in close-contact areas. Common symptoms include fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, cough, and fatigue. There is no cure for this illness, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are often used to help manage symptoms as needed. A prescription medication is also available to help shorten the length of this illness and decrease some complications in high risk individuals.

Medications available in the Jase Case: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, oseltamivir

Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Pink eye is a common eye condition that can be caused by either bacteria or virus. Oftentimes symptoms of pink eye are mild and include eye redness, discharge, itchiness, and mild swelling. Despite the cause, this illness is often very contagious and requires missing school or work until symptoms are improved or you have been on medication for at least 24 hours. While it is often difficult to tell the difference between a viral and bacterial cause of this illness, many times an antibiotic eye drop is given.

Medications available in the Jase Case: ofloxacin eye drops

Hand, Foot, Mouth Disease (HFMD)

HFMD is caused by a highly infectious virus and can affect adults and children of all ages, although it is most common in children under 5. This illness causes blister-like sores in and around the mouth and a rash on the hands, feet, and sometimes buttock area in younger children. It is common for the lesions in the mouth to be painful and for a child to refuse eating or drinking due to pain. Most times the lesions on the body are not itchy or painful for the child. While there is no treatment for HFMD, over-the-counter medications and other home remedies (like sucking on popsicles to ease the throat/mouth pain and encourage hydration) can help manage the symptoms.

Medications available in the Jase Case: acetaminophen, ibuprofen

Head Lice

Lice are tiny parasites that live in hair. Although a lice infection is alarming, it is not dangerous. Some people may not experience any symptoms from lice, while others will note excessive scalp itchiness. Adult lice are not always seen on scalp inspection, but the eggs they lay (called nits) attached to hair follicles are always evident in someone who has contracted lice. Treatment for lice includes medicated shampoos that kill lice and manual removal of the nits using a special fine-tooth comb. Oral medication is also available for certain people as well. Clothing, bedding, and soft toys should also be decontaminated to avoid further spread.

Medications available in the Jase Case: ivermectin, permethrin

Chickenpox

Chickenpox, or varicella, is caused by a highly infectious virus. Since the introduction of the varicella vaccination, outbreaks of chickenpox have decreased, but they can still occur. Children who are unvaccinated are at higher risk of infection. Chickenpox causes an itchy, blistery rash but can also have fever, sore throat, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, and body aches. There is no cure for this illness, but oral and topical over-the-counter medications and creams, as well as other home remedies like oatmeal baths, can be used to help with symptoms or discomfort and itch. Prescription antiviral medications are available to help shorten this illness for adults or other people at high risk of complications but are rarely used in children.

Medications available in the Jase Case: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, loratadine, valacyclovir

Mononucleosis (Mono)

Mononucleosis, also known as “mono” or the “kissing disease”, is caused by the highly contagious Epstein-Barr virus. It is spread by saliva, through kissing, sharing drinks, sneezing, coughing, etc. Symptoms are often similar to flu or strep throat and include fever, sore throat, fever, and muscle aches. There is no treatment for mono, but over-the-counter medications are used to help manage symptoms.

Medications available in the Jase Case: acetaminophen, ibuprofen

Eczema

While eczema is not transmissible between people, it is a common skin condition in many school aged children. Eczema is a type of dermatitis, or skin inflammation, that causes the skin to become itchy, dry, and bumpy. Eczema triggers can vary from person to person, but common triggers include new soaps, detergents, or other chemicals, weather changes, certain fabrics, and stress. While eczema rarely causes school absences, it can be uncomfortable, and is easily treated with avoidance of the trigger and a steroid cream.

Medications in the Jase Case: triamcinolone cream

In conclusion:

Most of us already know that as children return to school, they often bring home more than just homework—they frequently catch and spread illnesses. Despite usually being mild, these conditions can still disrupt family routines and lead to missed school and work days.

To help you combat the illnesses that kids inevitably come home with every school year, we have put together a customized Jase Case containing medications to treat all of the most common back to school illnesses.

Explore the customized Back to School Jase Case HERE

Add all Jase physicians recommended medications to your order and you can customize it further to your exact needs!

As always, stay safe, stay healthy and stay prepared.

– Your partners in preparedness: Jase.com

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Order Today

Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!

Navigating Market Turbulence: How Plummeting Stocks Can Affect Consumer Prices

How The Recent Stock Market Downturn Signals Potential Price Increases for Consumers and Businesses

The stock market has experienced significant volatility in the past week, marked by a sharp downturn driven by political instability, trade tensions, and global conflicts. This economic turbulence is compounded by a disappointing July jobs report, fears that the Federal Reserve is behind in cutting interest rates, and a notable tech stock selloff. These factors contribute to growing concerns of a recession and rising inflation, creating a challenging economic environment for both consumers and businesses.

The Market Downturn: Causes and Implications

Causes of the Downturn

Recent stock market declines are a reflection of broader economic concerns:

Political Instability and Trade Tensions: Ongoing trade disputes, particularly between major economies like the U.S. and China, create an uncertain business environment. Political instability in various regions further exacerbates this uncertainty, affecting investor confidence.
Global Conflicts: Geopolitical tensions and conflicts disrupt global supply chains and trade flows, leading to economic instability and affecting market performance.
Disappointing Economic Indicators: The July jobs report, which fell short of expectations, signals potential weaknesses in the U.S. economy. This has heightened fears of a slowdown.
Monetary Policy Concerns: There are growing concerns that the Federal Reserve may be slow in adjusting interest rates to counteract economic slowdown and inflation, further fueling market fears.
Tech Stock Selloff: High valuations and profit-taking in the tech sector have led to significant selloffs, contributing to overall market volatility.

| In the past several years, during periods of significant stock market downturns, consumer prices rose between 3-4% due to increased costs of goods and services. |

Effects on Commodity Prices and Finished Goods

Market volatility has direct and immediate effects on consumer behavior and prices. Economic uncertainty often leads to fluctuations in commodity prices, which can translate to higher costs for everyday goods. For the average consumer, this means facing rising prices and potential scarcity of certain commodities, ingredients, and finished goods.

Fluctuations in Commodity Prices

Economic instability often leads to significant fluctuations in the prices of key commodities. For example:

Oil Prices: Geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions can lead to spikes in oil prices, affecting transportation costs and the prices of goods.
Agricultural Products: Trade tensions and climate-related disruptions can impact the supply and prices of essential agricultural products like wheat, corn, and soybeans.
Metals and Minerals: Industrial metals like copper and aluminum are affected by global economic conditions and trade policies, influencing the costs of manufactured goods.

Impact on Ingredients and Finished Goods

Higher commodity prices lead to increased production costs for manufacturers, which are often passed on to consumers. This impact is felt across various sectors:

Food and Beverages: Rising prices for agricultural products lead to higher costs for food and beverages, affecting household budgets.
Consumer Goods: Increased costs for raw materials and transportation can raise prices for everyday consumer goods, from electronics to clothing.
Healthcare and Medications: The pharmaceutical industry relies on a steady supply of raw materials and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Economic volatility can lead to price increases for these materials, resulting in higher costs for medications.

Impact on Consumers

For consumers, the effects of market volatility are felt directly in their wallets. Rising prices for essential goods and services can strain household budgets, particularly for those already facing economic hardship. Key areas of impact include:

Groceries: Higher prices for food and beverages can lead to increased grocery bills.
Utilities and Transportation: Rising energy costs can affect household utility bills and transportation expenses.
Healthcare: Increased costs for medications and healthcare services can burden individuals and families, particularly those with chronic conditions.

How This Can Affect Jase, and Our Customers

Market volatility can significantly impact consumer prices and behavior. Economic uncertainty often leads to fluctuations in commodity prices, which can affect the cost of goods. For the average consumer, such news typically means rising prices and increased scarcity of certain commodities, ingredients, and finished goods. Prescription medications are not immune to these trends.

For Jase, this could mean higher prices from our suppliers for medications. This is why we always encourage you to protect yourselves and your loved ones by having emergency meds on hand before the need arises. The urgency is only bolstered by potential price increases across consumer markets, including pharmaceuticals and medications. This proactive approach ensures that you and your family are protected against sudden medication price increases and supply shortages.

– Your partners in preparedness: Jase.com

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Order Today

Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!

« Older Entries

Planning is the difference between panic, and preparedness.

How to Make an Emergency Plan for Your Household

Assess Your Unique Needs

Family Communication and Meeting Points

Prepare for Sheltering in Place

Assign Responsibilities

Stay Informed and Prepared

Practice and Update Your Plan

Don’t Forget Your Pets

Lifesaving Medications

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You depend on your medications, but what if you can’t get them?

Navigating Prescription Stockouts

| In 2024, there has steadily been about 300 medications in short supply according to the ASHP |

Lifesaving Medications

Recent Posts

Join Our Newsletter

Global health warnings are being issued, but you likely aren’t at risk.

Mpox: What You Need To Know

Lifesaving Medications

Recent Posts

Join Our Newsletter

| In the first quarter of 2024, drug shortages in the U.S. hit an all time high, surpassing the previous record set in 2014. |

Lifesaving Medications

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10 Most Common Back to School Illnesses & Physician Recommended Medications

| Each year about 3 million kids aged 5-17 miss 15 or more school days due to health-related reasons. |

Common Cold

Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)

Strep Throat

Influenza (flu)

Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Hand, Foot, Mouth Disease (HFMD)

Head Lice

Chickenpox

Mononucleosis (Mono)

Eczema

In conclusion:

Explore the customized Back to School Jase Case HERE

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How The Recent Stock Market Downturn Signals Potential Price Increases for Consumers and Businesses

The Market Downturn: Causes and Implications

| In the past several years, during periods of significant stock market downturns, consumer prices rose between 3-4% due to increased costs of goods and services. |

Effects on Commodity Prices and Finished Goods

Impact on Consumers

How This Can Affect Jase, and Our Customers

Lifesaving Medications

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