So, it happened. I knew I jinxed myself on the last post when I said that my kids had not been ill this cold and flu season. But really, it is all my fault. My son got the flu. I didn't get us vaccinated against it and I couldn't feel more guilt.
It has been a rough week trying to keep my little man well, balancing work, and keeping everyone else in the away from the virus. But, I am glad to share with you all, some of the items that helped me battle this virus. Here is a list the best items to have around the house during cold and flu season.
PediaCare® Cough & Runny Nose + Acetaminophen - This medicine helped keep my son's cough in line, all while providing comfort from his fever and body aches. It made it a bit easier for me because it was one less medicine to manage. Before giving to my child, I made sure to run it by the pharmacist when picking up his medication, as you should check with your doctor or pharmacist before administering. Click here to download the PediaCare® dosage chart, which helps you match your child’s symptoms with one of PediaCare® products. When using the chart, it’s best to weigh your child first to determine proper dosing of PediaCare® products. If weight is not known, use age.
Also, here is a $1 off coupon to purchase PediaCare's Cough & Runny Nose plus Acetaminophen at their local Dollar General.
Included on the list is a thermometer, tissues and fever reducing patches. Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes came in handy to immediately kill any virus lingering on surfaces. And I did stock up on plenty of fluids. Drinks that have electrolytes and Vitamin C & D were also great for my sick child's body. The individual juice box drinks were easy to handle during the middle of the night when I was trying to help lower a fever with a cool drink. I have also heard that Vitamin D helps to reduce children’s risk of getting a cold by half. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children should take at least 400 IU of vitamin D a day, an amount found in most children’s multivitamins.
Not pictured above, but surely something to stock up on during the cold and flu season is sleep and immunizations. As for sleep, it goes a long way when it comes to health. Tired kids are more susceptible to viral infections, so it's best if we all get a good night's sleep.
And immunizations...I know, I know. It is a touchy subject right now, but everyone should do what they believe is best for their own families. After having my son get the flu, and experiencing it myself, I can only say that what is best for us is to never have to deal with the flu again, so we won't miss our immunizations next year.
