Pack Your Sick Box for Cold and Flu Season Now
Families are already a few weeks into the school year, and while your children are (hopefully) unaffected by the disease just yet, you know that won’t last long. With cold, flu and virus season approaching, it’s best to prepare for the inevitable.
Megan Martin, a mom and doctor on TikTok , recently posted on her account a list of things every parent should have in their “sick box”—a collection of essentials that will help caregivers be prepared for when illness hits their family . We’ve rounded up some of the best products she and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend so you can put together your own treatment kit.
Disposable vomit bags, 60 pieces each.
A bowl by your child’s bed can still leave a mess on his blankets, sheets, and stuffed animals. These 1000ml hospital bags contain plenty of liquid in case your kids can no longer store it, and there are enough of them that you can keep a few in your car in case your child gets sick.
Digital thermometer
There is no need to purchase an expensive thermometer to check your baby’s temperature. Simply place this trusty digital device under his tongue and within 10 seconds the LCD will tell you if he has a fever.
Liquid acetaminophen
When your child has a fever, a dose of liquid acetaminophen (such as liquid Tylenol) may help lower the fever and manage symptoms. Just check the label to make sure you’re using the appropriate dosage for your child’s age and weight.
Oximeter
Flu and COVID can attack the lungs and reduce the amount of oxygen needed in the blood. Low blood oxygen levels can lead to a heart attack or cardiac arrest. This oximeter measures your pulse and the amount of oxygen in your blood so you can check whether your symptoms are affecting your heart.
Electrolytes
Vomiting and diarrhea can put your child at risk of dehydration . This electrolyte powder contains no artificial colors or sweeteners. It also has more electrolytes and less sugar than similar products, so kids will stay hydrated without experiencing stomach upset.
Lozenges to soothe the throat
A sore throat can be unbearable for your child. These lozenges contain fruit pectin and organic honey to soothe an irritated throat. They are intended for children ages 3 and older, but the American Academy of Pediatrics says the lollipops and other candies are a choking hazard up to age 4 . Save them for your older children.
Saline spray and nasal aspirator
Babies can’t blow their nose, so NoseFrida is a fantastic tool when your baby is sick. The device sucks out snot quickly and safely and is what we have used most often to help my kids stay comfortable when they are sick. You can also use a traditional light bulb aspirator , which does essentially the same job.
To prepare your child’s nasal passages for the removal of the booger, you’ll need to put in a few drops of saline to soften it and keep the nose moist.
Ultrasonic humidifier
Another way to keep your child’s throat and nose moist is to keep a humidifier in the bedroom to prevent their sinuses from being irritated by dry air. Many trendy devices feature cartoon characters, but this cute ultrasonic humidifier is competitively priced and will fit into the playful decor of any room.