Protecting your family from illness this winter

Written in collaboration with Ultra Chloraseptic

Yes, it’s that time of year again when we all need to be even more on top of making sure we’re washing our hands and cleaning our homes more than usual. With winter comes cold and flu season, as well those notorious winter stomach bugs.

Cold and flu

Just this last week, we’ve experienced colds, sore throats and a 24 hour stomach bug. Visits to the local pharmacy for various medicines and treatments are on the rise, but if you’re just too ill to leave the house, you can always resort to the internet. For example, just a few days ago, while looking online for some sore throat remedies I came across this ultra chloraseptic anaesthetic sore throat spray. It’s suitable for adults, teens and children aged six and above.

I do find a good sore throat spray can really help to settle young children, especially overnight when symptoms often feel at their worst.

When it comes to sniffly noses, I head to my local supermarket to buy a nasal decongestant spray. Some young children just simply can’t blow their nose, so a nasal decongestant spray is ideal for helping to ease the congestion. In addition, a nice big box of super soft tissues for delicate noses always helps too.

Stomach bugs

For tummy bugs, I am forever telling everyone I know to wash their hands. After the toilet, after they’ve been outside, after touching animals etc. Sadly, all the hand washing in the world doesn’t always prevent those nasty winter stomach bugs, so if you or someone you know does come down with a stomach bug, the best remedy is rest and plenty of water. Make sure to take sips of water instead of big gulps. Staying hydrated when you’ve been sick is so important.

You could also invest in a rehydrating drink. These usually are available in powder form from your local pharmacy. Just empty the sachet as per the instructions and mix with water.

Final thoughts

Of course, the best thing you can do when you’re unwell is contact your local pharmacist or GP for advice. If you have friends and family who can help to make sure you rest, then even better. I always remember my mum sitting by my side when I was unwell. She’d bring me an energy drink, probably not the best choice of drink in those days, but I didn’t complain! Mum would also make her delicious homemade soup. Either chicken or vegetable. Always a fond memory for me!

So whatever you do this winter, make sure you take care of yourself and your family.