The first step to getting through the cold and flu season is preparing.

To prevent the cold or flu from worsening, it’s important to stock up on the right medicines and supplies. You can do this at your local pharmacy or purchase them online.

So what are some items that should be in your medicine cabinet?

It may seem like there are only three essentials you need, but there are quite a few other essentials that you can benefit from having in stock.

Here are some of the most necessary items you should have on hand:

• COVID tests: These can tell you if you have a cold or flu and how severe it is.
• Masks: Help filter out viruses in the air by covering your nose and mouth while you sleep or when you cough. They’re available at most pharmacies and grocery stores.
• Acetaminophen: This drug can help ease the pain associated with colds, but it also has anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate some of your aches and pains as well. It’s best to take it at the first sign of a cold or flu since it can help prevent infections from taking hold if taken early enough. You should talk to your physician about how much acetaminophen you should take based on your weight and other medical conditions.
• A thermometer: This one is especially important if you have a fever. If your temperature is higher than normal and lasts longer than two days, see a doctor immediately.
• Pulse Oximeter: It is an essential tool for helping you keep track of your health. It measures the amount of oxygen in your blood. If you’re having trouble breathing, you can check your pulse oximeter to find out how well you’re breathing. It can also be used to detect fast heart rates, both of which can affect your health.
• Non-zinc Throat Lozenges: They contain no zinc, so they won’t cause an upset stomach. They’re great for soothing sore throats and reducing inflammation, which helps with sinus congestion. These lozenges are available at pharmacies and drugstores.
• Cough Syrup: This isn’t something you should be drinking on a regular basis; however, it can be helpful if you’re having trouble getting rid of mucus from your lungs because of a cold or allergies.
• Take soup or other foods that are high in protein, as they will help move mucus out of your system more quickly than normal meals would. This meal can pass through your system more easily without causing more congestion or irritation in your nasal passages and throat lining.

There are many things you can do to prevent further problems.

Here are some of the most common remedies:

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and keep mucus moving out of your airways. You should drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses per day if possible to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Take vitamin C. It is the most powerful antioxidant and helps fight off the common cold and flu viruses. It can be found in orange juice, strawberries, and other citrus fruits.
• Reduce your stress level by doing something to de-stress during each day (e.g., listening to relaxing music).
• Keep your hands clean by washing them often with soap and water.

If you live in a moderate or cold climate, definitely put these items on your shopping list! And if you keep these things stocked in your medicine cabinet at all times, it will be easier to address a cold or flu quickly.