6 Must-Haves As Flu Season Approaches

Fall is upon us, and with it, that little thing we love so much!

Flu Season.

But if the thought of allergies, colds, the flu, and other nasty little illnesses gets you down, here’s a reason to look up: nowadays, we’re more prepared than ever.

If you’re stressing over the prospect of catching ‘the bug,’ or want to make sure you’re in good shape when people around you start coughing and hacking, you’ve got this.

Here are six must-haves that will ensure you’re fully armed as the flu season comes.

1. Hydration Products

Another word for drinks and fluids, hydration products are the first line of defense. People often overlook the importance of hydrating, but it’s the simplest thing you can do.

So do it right!

Make sure to load up on herbal teas especially. Teas containing ginger, chamomile, and peppermint are the perfect combo. Not only do they have anti-inflammatory abilities, but they’re great for helping a sore throat and keeping nausea down.

And don’t forget electrolyte packets, like Pedialye or Nuun, as well. These will ensure you’ve got plenty of vitamins and minerals so that your immune system can function at its best.

2. Thermometers

This one should be a no-brainer, but a lotta people forget it! Just make sure the one you have is reliable. Although they’re a little more pricey, it’s worth spending the extra bucks for a quality one. The Braun Digital No-Touch Forehead Thermometer is considered one of the best.

Other digital thermometers are also good and can be applied under the armpit, rectally, or orally depending upon the person. Just make sure you check regularly so that you know if medical attention is needed!

3. OTC Medications

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are ideal for addressing typical flu issues like aches, congestion, and fever. They’re also great for making you feel more comfortable, which is an important part of the healing process.

All you gotta do is make sure you’re well stocked. You always wanna have pain relievers like Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin on deck. Also, don’t forget decongestants like Sudafed for those stuffy noses and sinus pressures.

Just make sure not to overuse it. Follow what it says on the packaging, as many people take too much, defeating the purpose, or triggering unwanted side effects. Whatever you do, don’t become reliant on these medications. They’ll stop working, and you may just develop a dependence!

Your doctor can help you find alternative treatments if necessary.

4. Disinfectant Supplies

Lotta yuckies in your environment?

The best thing you can do for that is ensure you’ve got supplies to keep germs from spreading. If you’re constantly around other people or sharing spaces with them, this is especially important.

Make sure you have disinfectant wipes, first and foremost. You can use them on everything from counters to doorknobs and light switches. And of course, hand sanitizer. Get one with no less than 60 percent alcohol so that you can kill the germs when good ol’ water and soap are missing.

With a sensible cleaning routine (no need to become obsessive), especially on days when you’re around a lotta people, you can cut down significantly on nasty pathogens.

5. Tissues and Cough Drops

You already know. Hacking cough, runny nose, sneezing, groaning, moaning, and feeling like you wanna just plop down and shut out the world.

If this has ever sounded like you, there’s good news.

Simply by carrying some tissues and cough drops, you can help manage flu symptoms A LOT. Not only do these products help you with nasal congestion and coughing, but they also cut down on germ spreading. In other words, those around you will thank you!

For the best product, choose soft tissues that don’t strain the nose with repeated blows. For cough drops, look for those with menthol or eucalyptus, which are the best for sore throats and cough reduction.

6. Health and Wellness Essentials

Last but not least are the ‘essentials.’

Well, technically, these are all essentials, but what we’re referring to here are supplements. After all, what good is all the other stuff if your immune system is weak? Then you’ll just keep getting sick and needing tissues, cough drops, teas, thermometers, and everything else.

So be proactive. Consult your doctor about taking multivitamins – at the very least, vitamin C.

A daily supplementation routine can do wonders for your overall health, especially if you’re using top-shelf products that aren’t mostly filler.

By using supplements like this, and taking a truly comprehensive approach to flu season, you never know… you might just be one of the lucky few who don’t get sick!

But even if you do catch ‘the bug,’ the severity and duration of your symptoms can be significantly reduced. And who doesn’t want that?

By Evan Bollinger | Published September 12, 2024