It happens like clockwork. The season changes, days grow dim, temperatures cool, and people start getting sick. Just the other day Munchkin was complaining of increasing sinus pressure and the day after she woke up with the sniffles and a slight temperature. Frans also came home from work talking about how “something” seems to be going around in his office. He has been feeling achy and fatigued. As for me, I’m doing my best to fight whatever germs might be floating around. The crazy amount of travel I have been doing did a number on my immune system and I’m sleeping nonstop. But, we’re not giving in yet!
2016 Fall Cold & Flu Season — Prevent Illness
- Zinc — Frans is adamant about taking how you should take zinc when you feel a cold coming on. If you take zinc during the cold season it’s less likely that you’ll get sick. Also, taking zinc while having a cold may shorten the how long you have it.
- Airshield — Around a lot of people in a somewhat enclosed spaced? This extra big of vitamin c will hopefully stop any germs in their tracks.
- Ricola — I have tried so many throat lozenges but nothing seems to work quite like the original Ricola throat drops. Clear your sinuses and coat your throat at the same time. The honey lemon ones are pretty good too, though.
- Antibacterial Wipes — If you plan on doing any travel, you’ll want to have a travel pack or two of these. When you fly, make sure to wipe down all surfaces near your seat including the armrests, seatbelt, and tray table. A lot of germs get stuck to these surfaces and pro travelers always know to do this to avoid getting sick.
- Hand Sanitizer — Nothing is as effective as washing your hands for at least 30 seconds with soap. But, sometimes, a washroom is inconvenient to get to or there just isn’t one nearby. Keep liquid sanitizer in your purse or in your car in case you touch public surfaces and to use before eating.
- Tissue with Lotion — You’ll probably be going through a lot of tissue from here on out. If you get Puffs with lotion, it will be a little gentler on your nose and will keep it from getting dry and flaky.
2016 Fall Cold & Flu Season — Fighting Illness
- Cold and Flu Medicine — Once you get sick, you want to be rid of it as soon as possible. There are so many choices pick the one that best addresses the symptoms you’re suffering from. For kids under 12, choose a children’s formula with an age-specific dosage schedule.
- Humidifier — Sometimes the dry air zaps your strength and makes breathing harder. A humidifier can alleviate some pressure if you’re dealing with a persistent cough. Plus, you know you’ve always wanted one of those with a super cute animal design…
- Chest Rub — It can be miserable when you’re so stuffed up that you can’t breathe. It’s especially frustrating for little ones. These smell super strong but medicated chest rubs can open the nasal passages for some relief.
- Flu Shot — In a survey conducted for CVS, 64% of the people polled say they still go to work while sick. Ugh! No wonder so many get sick during this time! Getting a flu shot annually is an effective way to prevent the flu. 59% get a flu shot every year or plan to get one this year since they feel it’s the best way to protect against the virus. FYI, just don’t get the “mist.” I got that one year and totally got sick soon after. See the press release with included infographic here.
In case you need to pick up any of the above, don’t forget to use the CVS Pharmacy ExtraCare app. You can pull up your ExtraCare card number, send discount offers right to your account, and even set up instant mobile pay. That way you can get in and out as quick as possible.
These are some basic measures to avoid getting sick this season and next. And, if a family member does happen to get sick, you can use these ideas to prevent passing the illness around. It is no fun when everyone is down for the count! I’m sure you have a ton of other household remedies to ward off any viruses that may threaten your household. What tips do you have to not getting sick this fall/winter or for a quick recovery?
What tips do you have to not getting sick this fall/winter or for a quick recovery?
Disclosure: I’m proud to be working with CVS Pharmacy to help spread the word about how to #FindYourHealthy. All opinions expressed are my own, and all product claims or program details shared should be verified at CVS.com or with the appropriate manufacturers.
