Colds are on the rise this spring—here’s what to know and how to stay safe
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While spring is here, winter illnesses are here to stay. According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of common illnesses such as norovirus, respiratory adenovirus and human parainfluenza virus have all been increasing over the past few weeks.
While an uptick in these illnesses during the spring isn't unusual, it is certainly inconvenient. In their mildest form, these illnesses often present cold-like symptoms. We'll walk you through what you need to know to avoid getting sick this spring, as well as ways to get relief if you do get sick.
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Symptoms of the common cold
The various sicknesses tend to present the same symptoms as the common cold. These include:
Sore throat
Runny nose
Coughing
Sneezing
Body aches
Headache
Chills
Fever
►More: Norovirus, or the 'stomach bug', is making rounds—here are CDC-approved ways to prevent it
Products to help you combat the common cold
1. A mask
Illnesses often spread via droplets from infected individuals. These droplets are carried through the air after a sick person talks, coughs or sneezes. One way to lower your risk of getting sick is by wearing a mask that filters 95% of the particles responsible for airborne sicknesses. Both N95 and KN95 masks are available from a variety of reputable retailers.
2. Soap and hand sanitizer
To prevent contaminating yourself via spreading germs on your hands to your eyes, nose or mouth, we recommend cleaning your hands often. Softsoap has over 70,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, with buyers loving the soap's scent and gentleness.
If you're out and about without access to soap and water, the CDC recommends using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol, such as Purell's travel-sized sanitizer which can easily fit in a purse or backpack.
3. Disinfectant
Illnesses can also spread when a healthy individual touches a surface coated with infected droplets and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth. To avoid this, wipe down frequently used surfaces such as doorknobs and remote controls with disinfectant wipes or spray disinfectant on them. No matter which method you use, both are lauded by reviewers for their effectiveness in killing germs. Just make sure to follow the directions on the spray or wipes to ensure that you’re disinfecting properly.
4. A water bottle
A water bottle is a must-have whether you're trying to stay healthy or you've already fallen ill. You may want to consider using your own water bottle instead of using public faucets or disposable cups to stay hydrated, as this can lessen your chance of getting sick. If you're already sick, staying hydrated may help you recover more quickly as liquids can help to push toxins through your system quicker. If you're in need of a quality reusable water bottle, our favorite is the Brita filtered water bottle. It keeps water cool for 24 hours, opens with one hand and its filter prevents odors and tastes.
5. An air purifier
Air purifiers with HEPA filters can reduce the risk of exposure to airborne diseases, so having one at home is a good way to give yourself extra protection. Our favorite air purifier, the Blueair DustMagnet 5410i, boasts exceptional particle removal, Alexa and Google Home integration and quiet operation. It uses a HEPASilent filter, which is similar to the HEPA filters used to filter virus particles. The Winix 5500-2, our pick for the best value air purifier, has a true HEPA filter. Beyond this, it's both easy to transport and easy to replace its filters.
6. A thermometer
As running a fever (defined as temperatures above 99.5°F) is one of the many symptoms of the common cold, if you’re feeling a bit hot, it’s important to use a thermometer to see where you stand. The best thermometer you can buy is the Femometer Digital Infrared Thermometer thanks to its silent mode and high temperature warning that tells you when you have a fever.
7. A humidifier
Using a humidifier may help to alleviate a stuffy nose and coughing when you’re sick. The best humidifier we've tested is the Levoit Classic 300S thanks to its high water capacity and high output. Plus, it's quiet, so it won't be a bother while you're trying to get some rest.
8. An electric kettle
There's nothing more soothing when you're sick than a piping hot cup of tea. To brew a no-hassle mug, we recommend using our favorite electric kettle, the Cuisinart PerfecTemp 1.7 Liter Electric Kettle. It comes with heat presets, intuitive controls and fast boiling. Our value pick is the Hamilton Beach 1.7 Liter Electric Kettle, which features a compact design and fast boiling.
9. A sleep mask
One of the many symptoms of the common cold is fatigue and oftentimes it’s best to just give in and get some shut eye. For many, this can prove all but impossible during the light of day. To get some much-needed rest while the sun is shining, we recommend using the best sleep mask. Mzoo’s sleep mask earns this distinction because it doesn’t apply pressure to your eyes, it completely blocks light and it’s adjustable.
10. A weighted blanket
Looking to level up your rest? Consider using a weighted blanket, especially since they can ease anxiety and help you get to sleep easier. The best weighted blanket is the Gravity Blanket because it's easy to clean, distributes weight evenly and is made of long-lasting material. That said, it costs a pretty penny, so you may prefer our value pick, the Ynm weighted blanket, which costs a fraction of the price. The Ynm conforms to your body and is easy to store.
11. Tissues
Using rough, scratchy tissues can make a runny nose even more excruciating. The next box you reach for should be our favorite tissue, Puffs Ultra Soft. These tissues are, well, ultra soft yet surprisingly durable.
12. An essential oil diffuser
Certain essential oils may help to ease cold symptoms including headaches and congestion. If you're in need of a diffuser, we recommend checking out our favorite, the Saje Aroma Om, which is stylish, easy to use and made from high-quality materials. Our value pick is the quiet and elegantly simple Asakuki Essential Oil Diffuser.
13. A slow cooker
Whether you're sick or caring for someone who's sick, using a slow cooker to make big batches of stress-free meals will make your life a whole lot easier. You just set it and forget it, as the saying goes. Of the ones we've tested, our favorite slow cooker is the Cuisinart 3-in-one Multicooker. It keeps food at the perfect temperature, its handles stay cool to the touch and it's easy to clean. Our value pick is the aptly named Hamilton Beach Set 'n Forget which is dishwasher safe, has a clip-on lid and comes with a serving spoon.
14. Epsom salt
Another symptom of the cold is muscle aches. Fortunately, a dip in an Epsom salt bath can help to bring relief. Dr. Teal's is a popular and trusted Epsom salt brand, with buyers finding that it makes their baths relaxing and leaves their skin feeling soft. Not to mention, it smells great, too.
15. A hot and cold compress
One symptom of a cold is a fever while another is chills—it really is the worst of both worlds. Our favorite heating pad, BodyMed Digital Moist Heating Pad will bring you relief from your chills. We love it because it heats up quickly, retains its heat well and can be used hands-free. Our favorite microwavable heating pad, sold by Caylee’s Creations, is convenient to use thanks to its small size and it can also double as a cold back by cooling it in your freezer. This one by My Heating Pad is the best reviewed on Amazon, with buyers loving how easy it is to use, its convenient size, and of course, the comfort it brings. Users also report success when using this as a cold pad by cooling it in their freezers.
16. A personal trash can
Got roommates? You may consider using a personal trash can for your tissues and other waste to ensure that you don't spread your sickness. Rubbermaid has one of the best-rated small trash cans on Amazon, with over 3,700 five-star reviews. Buyers enjoy the sturdiness and affordable price.
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This article originally appeared on Reviewed: How to stay safe from common cold, other sickness this spring
