The school buses are rolling, the leaves are tumbling, and… sniff sniff—yep, cold and flu season is here! While we’d all love to float through fall without a single sneeze, germs have a way of sneaking into classrooms, playdates, and even our cozy living rooms. But don’t worry, you can still keep your family healthy (and sane!) with a little preparation.
We gathered some adorable (and practical!) tips from Dr. Deborah Gilboa, a board-certified family physician and Braun spokesperson, to help you tackle sniffle season like a pro.
1. Out with the Old
First things first…..raid that medicine cabinet! Expired meds are no good, so check dates and toss what’s past its prime. Just make sure to look up your local disposal rules so you’re doing it safely. Think of it as a little fall cleaning project for your health.
2. Stock Your Snuggle Stash
Don’t wait until someone’s sick to run out for supplies! Keep comfort classics on hand—ginger ale, ice pops, tissues, and doctor-approved cough medicine. Bonus: stash a soft blanket and a favorite movie for instant cozy vibes.
3. Healthy Habits = Happy Family
Prevention is key! Encourage the kiddos (and grown-ups too) to wash hands often, munch on fruits and veggies, sip water all day long, and sneeze into tissues (or the crook of their arm if one’s not handy). Tiny habits make a big difference.
4. Trusty Thermometer = Peace of Mind
Nothing makes a parent’s heart race like a fever. That’s why Dr. Gilboa (mom of four!) swears by the Braun ThermoScan 5 Ear Thermometer. It’s quick, accurate, and gives parents the confidence to know when to grab meds or just another popsicle.
5. Keep Key Info Handy
When little ones are sick, the last thing you want to do is dig around for paperwork. Keep a cheat sheet of your child’s allergies, medications, dosages, and even school sick-day rules in one spot. Trust me, future you will be so thankful.
6. Don’t Forget the Air!
Dry air is a germ’s best friend. A humidifier helps keep your home’s air comfy and makes it harder for flu viruses to linger. Plus, it makes those dry winter nights way easier on little noses.
7. Post the Numbers
Stick a list of important phone numbers on the fridge (doctor, school, pharmacy, even grandma!). That way, whoever’s on “nurse duty” can reach help fast without fumbling through contacts.
At the end of the day, colds and flus happen. But with a little prep and a lot of love, your family will breeze through the season with fewer sniffles and more snuggles.
For more info on Braun thermometers, visit braunthermometers.com.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
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