Cold and flu season: what to have at home before the first fever

Fever season arrives on a school night, not on a Saturday morning. This is the short list worth having before it does.

When this is useful: Check this in early fall, before the first round goes through the classroom.

These are everyday supplies parents tell us they like to have on hand, not medical advice. Nothing here diagnoses or treats anything. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance, and check labels for your child's age and weight.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This may help support Ickly at no extra cost to you.

• Digital thermometer

  Check it works and you have spare batteries before you need it.

  Link coming soon

• Kids' fever and pain reliever

  Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen options, dosed by weight, never aspirin.

  Link coming soon

• Cool-mist humidifier

  Helps a night-time cough and a dry throat.

  Link coming soon

• Saline nose spray

  Safe at any age and the main thing that actually helps a blocked nose.

  Link coming soon

• Honey (for children over one)

  Better evidence for night-time cough than most cough syrups.

  Link coming soon

• Electrolyte drinks

  Fevers dehydrate faster than parents expect.

  Link coming soon

• COVID-19 rapid tests

  Answers the school's first question in fifteen minutes.

  Link coming soon

• Soft tissues with lotion

  Saves a sore nose by day three.

  Link coming soon

• Throat comfort for older kids

  Lozenges or warm-drink supplies for kids old enough not to choke on them.

  Link coming soon

• Sick-day entertainment

  A new sticker book buys an hour on the couch.

  Link coming soon

As an Amazon Associate Ickly earns from qualifying purchases.