Flu season is hard on everyone, and sometimes, no matter how careful you are, you can still get sick. It’s a good idea to prepare for flu season. By gathering the essentials early and getting your flu kit ready, you’ll avoid any sudden needs to visit the pharmacy to get supplies. Here are some things to buy at the drugstore to help prepare for flu season.
1. Hand sanitizer – The flu spreads through contact, so cleaning your hands frequently will help you avoid catching the flu virus. Washing hands with soap and water is the best option, but if you’re on the go, using alcohol-based hand sanitizer will suffice and disinfect your hands. Check your local drugstore for hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol for effective germ-killing power.
2. Decongestants – Stuffy noses are an inevitable side effect of the flu. It’s uncomfortable and annoying, but over-the-counter decongestants can help alleviate congestion and make you feel more comfortable. This is especially helpful at bedtime. You may also want to use a neti pot to rinse out the sinuses, which can help relieve symptoms; you can ask the pharmacy staff for more information about nasal washes.
3. Pain relievers – Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help calm a sore throat, lower a fever, relieve body aches and headaches, which are all unfortunate pains that accompany the flu. If you’re not sure, talk to the pharmacist at the drugstore.
These are just a few things you shouldn’t forget at the pharmacy as you prepare for flu season. Buying medicines and other essential supplies will help you avoid any late-night runs to the drugstore.
