Flu relief essentials: What to keep on hand

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Flu relief kit with tea, ginger and honey

Build a comfort kit before your household needs it.

No one enjoys having a cold or the flu. When respiratory illnesses hit, having the right supplies on hand can help you feel better faster. 

Items to gather

Before cold and flu season starts, try to stock up on these essentials:

  • Tissues – Soft ones help prevent irritation.
  • Thermometer – For monitoring fever.
  • Water and electrolyte drinks – Stay hydrated with water, coconut water or electrolyte drinks.
  • Clear broth soup – Easy to digest and soothing.
  • Honey and lemon – Natural cough soothers; mix into warm water or tea.
  • Ginger or chamomile tea – Calms nausea and supports rest.
  • Cough drops or throat lozenges – Help ease sore throats.
  • Over-the-counter medications:
    • Acetaminophen or ibuprofen – For fever and aches.
    • Cough suppressant or expectorant – To help with coughing and mucous.
    • Menthol rub or essential oils (eucalyptus, peppermint) – For congestion relief.
    • Nasal sprays – To moisturize and clear your nose.
  • Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes – To limit the spread of germs.
  • Lip balm and humidifier – For comfort and moisture.

Add-ons for little ones

If you have children in your household, you may also want the following:

  • Nasal aspirator – Bulb syringe to clear their nose.
  • Infant or child acetaminophen or ibuprofen – To reduce fever and discomfort.
  • Medicine dispenser – Nipple-style or syringe.
  • Electrolyte or juice pops – To prevent dehydration during fever or illness.

Many of these items are shelf-stable and can last for months. It doesn’t hurt to doublecheck expiration dates on medication so you’re sure it’s as effective as possible.

When to use your care kit

Once you've put together these items, the care kit can be your go-to resource when you or someone in your family isn't feeling well. Restock it after each illness so you're always prepared.

If you aren’t getting better with home care, you can book an appointment with your PeaceHealth doctor or care team or request a video visit. 

If you don’t have a PCP or can’t be seen at your regular clinic as quickly as you need, PeaceHealth Priority Care is an immediate care option for getting on the road to recovery.

Find a doctor Get Priority Care Get a flu shot