How to care for someone with the flu

The flu has been especially harsh this year. The season is far from over, so here are some tips for keeping yourself healthy and for caring for those who are sick, courtesy of the American Red Cross. 

If someone in your house comes down with the flu, it’s all about containment. 

Dedicate one caretaker and one room for the sick person. Have everyone else keep out so they won’t also be exposed to the germs.

Keep personal items separate. Don’t share the same pens, clothes, blankets, or utensils unless they’ve been cleaned between uses.

For supplies, you’ll want:

  • Tissues
  • A trash can lined with a plastic trash bag
  • Hand sanitizer
  • A cooler or pitcher with ice and drinks
  • A thermometer
  • A cup with a straw or squeeze bottle
  • Disposable gloves for the caretaker
  • Disinfect doorknobs, switches, handles, computers, bathroom surfaces, and toys.

Wash everyone’s dishes in the dishwasher or by hand with hot water and soap.

Wash everyone’s clothes in a standard washing machine as you normally would. Use detergent and very hot water, tumble dry on a hot dryer setting and wash your hands after handling dirty laundry.