Latest CDC Guidance: 2025–2026 Flu Season | Influenza (Flu) | CDC

Our immune systems do an excellent job of managing viral respiratory infections, with most resolving by days 7-10. We follow Infectious Disease Society guideline and start antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections (sinus or ear infections, pneumonia) if symptoms don't improve by day 14; antibiotics may be prescribed earlier based on one's medical history, combined with high fevers, significant nasal drainage and headache/facial pain, earaches, or cough with shortness of breath. Prescribing antibiotics too early can breed resistance, cause allergic reactions, and affect the gut microbiome – altering the good bacteria that may play a role in chronic medical conditions and dementia.

Cold & Flu Season Essentials:

As we head into cold and flu season, having the right over-the-counter medications and supplies on hand can help you manage symptoms early and avoid unnecessary trips to the pharmacy when you're feeling under the weather. Here's a checklist of recommended items:

Symptom Relief Medications

  • Pain relievers & fever reducers - Help reduce fever, body aches, and headaches.

    • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) - 500-1000 mg every 8 hours (max does of 3,000 mg per day)

    • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) - 400-800 mg every 8 hours (max does of 2,400 mg per day)

    • Use caution if any history of heartburn; consider taking a daily Pepcid (famotidine) 20 mg to protect stomach lining while taking NSAID

  • Decongestants

    • Relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

  • Antihistamines

    • Loratadine (Claritin), Cetirizine (Zyrtec) – non-drowsy options

  • Cough suppressants & expectorants

    • Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM) – suppresses dry cough

    • Guaifenesin (Mucinex) – loosens mucus for productive coughs

  • Throat lozenges & sprays

    • Soothe sore throats and reduce irritation

    • Saline nasal spray or rinse

    • Helps clear nasal passages and relieve dryness

    • Zinc Acetate or Zinc Gluconate Lozenges (Cold-Eeze, Zicam, - Relieve cough and nasal discharge more quickly when treatment is started within 24 hours of symptoms onset

  • Supportive Supplies

    • Digital thermometer - For monitoring fever accurately

  • Humidifier

    • Adds moisture to dry indoor air, easing congestion and coughing

  • Tissues & hand sanitizer

    • For hygiene and reducing spread of germs

  • Electrolyte drinks or rehydration solutions

    • Pedialyte, Gatorade, or oral rehydration salts

    • Prevent dehydration, especially with fever or vomiting

  • Vapor rub (e.g., Vicks VapoRub, Tiger Balm)

    • Provides temporary relief for cough and congestion

    • Rub a thin layer on the chest (Not recommended for children under 2 years of age)

  • Bonus Tips

    • Check expiration dates on all medications.

    • Store items in a cool, dry place.

    • Consider stocking up before symptoms start — prevention is key!

    • Our immune systems do an excellent job of managing viral respiratory infections, with most resolving by days 7-10. We follow Infectious Disease Society guideline and start antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections (sinus or ear infections, pneumonia) if symptoms don't improve by day 14; antibiotics may be prescribed earlier based on one's medical history, combined with high fevers, significant nasal drainage and headache/facial pain, earaches, or cough with shortness of breath. Prescribing antibiotics too early can breed resistance, cause allergic reactions, and affect the gut microbiome – altering the good bacteria that may play a role in chronic medical conditions and dementia.