Cooler weather is on the way, which means it’s time for sniffles, sneezes, and sore throats. While fall and winter are filled with beautiful white scenes and glittery snow they’re also prime time to get sick.
Don't let cold and flu season catch you off guard. Be ready to fight common cold and flu symptoms by having essentials already on hand in your home. These will help soothe your symptoms and make you feel as comfortable as possible while you recover.
If you come down with a cold or the flu, the last thing you want to have to do is run to the store.
Here are ten essentials you want to have at home during the cold and flu season.
1. Disinfectants
Use disinfectant sprays and/or wipes to keep germs at bay. Be sure to disinfect high-traffic areas in your home including door knobs, the refrigerator door handle, stair hand rails frequently.
2. Tissues
Runny nose, sneezing, and coughing are common cold and flu symptoms. They're also the main way that flu droplets can spread cold and flu germs around your home. Always cover your own coughs and sneezes with tissues, and teach your children to do the same. Remember to keep washing your hands with soap and water between tissue use.
3. Hand sanitizer
An alcohol-based hand sanitizer is another essential to have. Use it if you don't have access to soap and water or are unable to wash your hands right away. A good hand sanitizer should be at least 60 percent alcohol.
4. Thermometer
A fever can occur at anytime however is more common during cold and flu season. Keep a digital thermometer in your home so that you can check your temperature. Keep in mind that you should seek medical care if you have a high fever or a fever that lasts more than a few days.
5. Essential oils
Essential oils such as lemon and peppermint can be very helpful in helping to alleviate symptoms of cold and flu. Lemon essential oil can help clear nasal passages and allows for steady breathing whereas peppermint can help reduce coughing, sinusitis, and throat infections.
6. Warm clear fluids
Warm clear fluids help keep you hydrated when when fighting cold and flu symptoms. A steaming cup of tea or a bowl of broth-based soup will help ease nasal congestion, a sore throat, or a queasy stomach. The steam helps loosen mucus secretions from your nose and throat and are also easier on an upset stomach.
7. Hot water bottle
Having a hot water bottle on hand can be a game changer if you’re suffering from particularly aggressive aches and pains, fever or even congestion. Simply place one on your ears or chest, to alleviate pressure and loosen the mucus.
8. Humidifier
Investing a humidifier for your bedroom can help ward off cold and flu related nasal congestion, runny nose or dry cough so you can get some rest.
9. Easily accessible activities
Activities that are easily accessible are just as important in keeping your mind healthy and busy. Reading books, watching movies, or starting a journal are all wonderful ways to keep yourself from being bored should you become ill with a cold or the flu.
10. Over the counter medications
Over the counter medications including fever reducers, pain relievers, cough drops, anti-diarrheal medication, and decongestants. Remember to check the expiration dates before the beginning of a new season.
What are some essentials you have at home during the cold and flu season?
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