Cold & Flu Checklist The cold weather is coming, which means cold and flu season are right around the corner. Don't let the flu or cold bugs catch you without the necessary supplies on hand. Below are our suggestions for the essential supplies you should have in your medicine cabinet in preparation for this year's cold and flu battles. THE BASICS Analgesic Capsules Acetaminophen or aspirin for reducing fevers, relieving aches and pains. NOTE: Children under 12 should never be given aspirin for fever reduction due to possibility of Reyes Syndrome. Antidiarrheal medication Antinausea medication Look for a brand that is safe for use with adults and children. Cough suppressant Look for alcohol-free brands, and don't give adult strength meds. to your kids. Decongestant To relieve congested heads and remove fluid from ear canals. Mentholated rub Vicks Vaporub still does the trick when noses are stuffy, throats are sore and muscles are achy. Nasal Aspirator Babies can't blow their noses, so this does it for them, sort of. Nasal Spray Saline only solutions, to help alleviate dry, stuffy noses. Decongestant nasal sprays should be avoided. Thermometer Make sure you have the right one for your needs--know the difference between rectal and oral thermometers and when and how to use them properly. Throat lozenges Try herbal varieties--which don't have such a strong medicinal taste--to alleviate coughs and soreness. Throat spray For more severe throat pain. Cepacol's cherry flavored spray is kid-friendly. Tissues with a moisturizer Soothing to sore, red, overblown noses. Handkerchiefs are pretty, but unsanitary. ADDED EXTRAS: Cold & flu teas Electrolyte replacement solution To rehydrate children suffering from bouts of diarrhea or vomiting. Never give soda or sugary drinks. Echinacea and goldenseal blend tincture or tea. Many naturopathic physicians believe these two herbs have immuno-stimulating properties. Zinc lozenges Some studies have shown that taking zinc can help reduce cold and flu symptoms. MAKE SURE YOU: Avoid potentially dangerous drug interactions. Consult your physician or pharmacist before administering cold medications to family members who are on prescription meds. Check the expiration dates on all medicines before administering them. Discard medicines with old or nearing expiration dates, including any unfinished anitbiotics from previous illnesses. Finish antibiotics prescribed for bronchitis or ear infections even if you begin to feel better. Taking partial doses can lead to resistant strains of bacteria. Do not take antibiotics for viral illnesses like colds or flu. Antibiotics are meant for bacterial infections like strep or staph. Check medication labels for ingredients like acetaminophen or aspirin. Overdosing a child with acetaminophen could lead to liver damage. Do not take allergy medications for colds. Antihistamines cause dehydration and drowsiness, and they cannot remedy runny noses caused by the cold virus.    Check out our other lists: Pick one Arts & Crafts Family Pets Parties Babies Children Health Learning Time For You Recipes Travel