It’s that time of year again when it seems like everyone is either sick, getting sick, or recovering from being sick. Influenza, the common cold, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses often surge at this time of year. In fact, more than 47 million people got the flu in 2024. We’re all doing our best to keep our families healthy during virus season, but despite our best efforts, places like school, daycare, work, and everyday errands can still expose us to common germs.

James Keegan, MD, an infectious disease specialist in Rapid City, South Dakota, and advisor to the South Dakota Department of Health, shared that preventing infection is key in getting through flu season: “One can prepare by avoiding crowds during this time period, washing your hands after contact … and considering mask wearing for higher risk individuals.” But when these efforts fail, you’ll need the essentials to help you ride out the virus as comfortably and as quickly as possible.

To help you get through flu season, we’re sharing products recommended by board-certified physicians (and sharing their expert tips) as well as products we’ve tested at home ourselves. From sanitizers to chapsticks to dough drops and humidifiers, this is what you need to get through cold and flu season.

This no-touch digital thermometer is especially helpful when caring for a baby, toddler, or anyone who isn’t feeling well. Instead of placing the thermometer in the mouth or under the arm, simply hold it about an inch away from the center of the forehead and press a single button. The reading appears in about a second, on a large, easy-to-read LED screen. It runs on two AAA batteries and comes in white or black. Just keep in mind that, as with all noncontact thermometers, following the instructions on distance and placement can improve accuracy.

If you want to make an instant best friend, hand a child a lollipop. When the children you love aren’t feeling well, a fun way to provide temporary symptom relief is to give them a sore throat pop. Wedderspoon Organic Manuka Honey Pops for Kids are made with honey, which can be an effective remedy for a sore throat. They’re available in a variety of flavors, giving kids a choice in their treatment. The pops can help soothe irritation caused by viruses and winter allergies, with greater enjoyment than a spoonful of a more typical symptom-relief medicine.

It’s important to note that children under age 1 shouldn’t consume honey because of the risk of infant botulism.

If curated gift baskets for your loved ones are your go-to presents, you’ll love this get-well kit for kids. The Frida Baby Breathe Easy Kit has handy items to help manage the congestion that babies and parents rightfully despise. It comes with nose and chest wipes, chest vapor rub with eucalyptus and lavender oil, and vapor drops that can be added to a warm bath for aromatherapy. This trio of some of Frida Baby’s best products can be used to calm, comfort, and decongest. In addition, it comes in beautiful packaging, perfect for a gift.

Nothing soothes a sick baby like a warm, cozy bath, and these Frida Baby Vapor Bath Bombs add extra comfort to your bathtime routine. The natural eucalyptus and lavender may help ease congestion by opening up the small airways that are blocked. As the bath bombs dissolve, they create a gentle, steamy mist that can make breathing a little easier. Little ones can enjoy the fizzy water at the same time, making the experience even more fun.

If you’ve got kids, odds are you’ve probably spent plenty of time fishing toys out of not-so-clean places — the floor of your car, cluttered toy bins, and, of course, their mouths. CleanSmart Toy Disinfectant is a gentle, no-rinse spray that helps clean and sanitize any germy toys or surfaces your babies and toddlers play with and on. CleanSmart has only three ingredients: ionized water, salt, and hypochlorous acid, which mimics the way our immune system naturally fights germs. It’s also registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), meaning it has been tested and shown to kill common bacteria and viruses.

It can be hard to prioritize self-care, and sometimes, when you know someone hasn’t been well, you want to send them something to encourage them to take time to rest. Whispering Willow’s Tranquility Gift Box is an excellent choice. It comes with linen spray, hand and cuticle salve, body oil, and an eye pillow to help you drift off to sleep. Everything is lavender-scented to promote relaxation, and the products included are full-size, which is not always the case with gift boxes. “This is a great self-care package,” says editorial director Simone Scully. “I might send it to a friend who is stressed or would just generally like the items included.”

This thoughtful gift basket includes everything a sick friend needs: a cozy fleece blanket, fuzzy socks, a silk eye mask, a scented candle, soap and bath bombs, and a “Drink Happy Thoughts” tumbler for water or tea. Your loved one can create an at-home spa experience to help soothe body aches and chills while they rest and recuperate.

You can never have too many fuzzy socks on hand, especially when you’ve got body chills. These chenille socks come in a set of seven pairs, available in a variety of colors for both men and women. The toes are seamless, so there are no itchy or loose threads to irritate your feet. They also have nonslip rubber grips at the bottom to keep you upright, so you don’t add a broken leg, arm, or other body part to your health woes. Elastic tops mean these socks won’t droop, sag, or turn into ankle warmers over time.

A hot, steamy shower can be just the ticket when you can’t stop coughing and your nose is stuffed up. Vicks VapoShower tablets can help create your own steam room when you’re not getting relief from medication. These shower tablets, which release that familiar Vicks menthol scent you remember from when you were sick as a kid, are basically the adult version of the Frida Baby Vapor Bath Bombs. They can provide real comfort and relaxation for a sick loved one.

When sickness strikes and chills or body aches take hold, there’s something undeniably comforting about having a cozy blanket within reach. And the best part about this ridiculously comfy blanket-lined hoodie is that you don’t need to be sick to want to wear it. If there’s even a slight chill in the air, put it on. It comes in multiple sizes and colors. If you give it to one person, don’t be surprised if everyone else starts asking for one, too.

Nothing soothes a sore throat like a cup of tea. Nepal Tea Collective shares an amazing combination of teas for every season and mood. The company’s commitment to fresh, organic ingredients makes it worth the price tag. Editor Olivia Campbell described this as her favorite tea: “I have been searching for a decent chai. I dislike most of the bagged grocery store brands I've tried. They don't taste spicy enough. This chai, on the other hand, is incredible. It's spicy, peppery, and perfect. It's an amazing blend of spices without the weird flavors of the other brands I've tried.”

Afrin No Drip Severe Congestion Nasal Spray contains oxymetazoline, a decongestant that may help temporarily relieve a stuffy nose. It’s safe for children ages 6 and up and for adults, and its nondrowsy formula won’t make you feel sleepy. The bottle is small and compact, so it’s easy to keep in a coat pocket or purse, and its “no-drip” design helps the spray stay where it’s applied, minimizing drips and mess.

When using it, some people may notice a brief stinging sensation, but it typically fades quickly, and the cooling menthol offers soothing relief and helps you feel like you can breathe again. It’s important to note that the manufacturer states you should not use this product for more than three days in a row, as it can make you more congested or lead to long-term dependence on the spray.

Since antibiotics don’t work for colds, managing the symptoms is usually the primary form of treatment. One of the most distracting symptoms is a headache, and finding pain relief that isn’t a medication can be challenging. But cold therapy may help decrease headache pain. The TheraICE compression cap contains a gel that can be heated or chilled. Toss it in the freezer for two hours, then slide it over your forehead or pull it down further to cover your eyes. The stretchy material accommodates all head and face shapes, and the cap is available in black or pink.

A dry, nagging cough can be hard to deal with (and listen to), and these Halls Honey Vanilla cough drops are a comforting option to have on hand. Made with real honey and menthol to help suppress dry, long-lasting coughs and relieve sore throats, they’re soothing, yummy, and cost-effective.

A pulse oximeter provides important health information — your oxygen saturation and heart rate — simply by placing it on your finger. If you’re having difficulty breathing or are in respiratory distress, the AccuMed Pulse Oximeter can help you decide if you need to reach out to your doctor or go to the emergency room.

It’s worth highlighting that pulse oximeters have limitations, and their readings can be affected by factors such as skin thickness, temperature, weight, circulation, pigmentation, tobacco use, and even fingernail polish. Always follow the instructions that come with the device. And, most importantly, call your provider if you have medical concerns, even if the readings are considered normal or inconclusive.

When you’re sick, muscle aches and back discomfort can make resting even harder. This heating pad can help relieve some of that pain. It wraps around your upper body, including your shoulders and neck, so it feels like a warm, comforting hug. The soft fabric feels gentle against your skin, and you can choose from several heat and timer settings to find what feels most comfortable. The long cord makes it easy to move around or adjust your position while resting. Bonus: It’s FSA- and HSA-eligible.

If you are prone to chapped lips, Dr. Dan’s CortiBalm is a gentle option to help soothe them. It contains hydrocortisone, a steroid recommended for various skin issues, including dry lips. It contains hydrocortisone, a common ingredient used to reduce inflammation and discomfort in the skin. Keep in mind that because this product contains a steroid, it's for temporary relief and you should consult a doctor if the issue persists.

The formula is unscented, which can be helpful for people who are sensitive to fragrances. Editor Katie Tuttle likes that this product is unscented, easy to apply, and not runny. “This lip balm definitely delivers,” she says. “I have very dry skin, and my lips peel, especially at the corners, if I don’t apply balm or moisturizer regularly. My lips were smooth and flake-free whenever I used this.”

If your loved ones are anything like me, they need an incentive or reminder to drink enough water. Fluids are even more important when you’re sick. Clear liquids help thin the mucus in your airways, making it easier for nasal mucus to drain from your nose. This water bottle from BBox may give them the incentive they need to take in more fluids. There are several colors to choose from, its 34-ounce capacity will keep you hydrated for hours, and the flip top is easy to keep clean. Although it is pricey, we found that it kept water cold for hours. “It’s a good value and offers a lot of versatility as far as weight amounts without taking up a lot of space,” says Scully.

Frequent handwashing can dry out the skin, and for people with eczema, that dryness may increase the risk of flares, rashes, and skin cracking. This hand soap is recommended for sensitive or easily irritated skin because it’s fragrance- and dye-free, hypoallergenic, and contains aloe, which moisturizes and helps heal skin. It supports healthy skin and regular handwashing, which is important for preventing illness.

One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs, including viruses and bacteria, is to limit close contact with others. When that isn’t an option, having a stash of disposable face masks on hand can help. Keegan shared that KN95 and N95 masks can be effective in stopping the spread of disease because, when worn properly, they can create a seal that minimizes transmission. To wear a mask properly, follow these guidelines: wash your hands before putting on a mask; only touch the bands or ties, not the mask itself; and ensure the mask covers your nose, mouth, and chin. These masks come in 10 colors and are individually wrapped.

“N95 masks are more protective than standard or cloth masks, but any mask provides some degree of protection,” says Goldberg.

Hand sanitizer is a must-have when illnesses are going around, and this spray-on option comes in scents like bergamot, lavandula, eucalyptus, and orange-coriander. The slim container fits easily in a gym bag, purse, or pocket, and it dries quickly without feeling sticky. It’s also refillable, so you can reuse the container again, rather than replacing it each time you run out.

We loved how portable this product is. “Noshinku's Pocket Sprayer hand sanitizer comes in slim, rectangular bottles that are easy to slide into your purse, gym bag, or pocket,” says Tuttle. Although she noted that it left her hands a bit dry, she liked that it dried quickly and smelled great.

This vegan hand soap is made with 98 percent natural ingredients and uses oat and grapeseed oils to moisturize as it cleans. It’s also verified by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), which means it meets standards for full ingredient disclosure and rigorous health and safety requirements. Since it is free of preservatives and dyes, it is less likely to cause skin irritation, which can flare up during periods when we need to wash our hands more often. Additionally, it’s available in various scents, including argan oil and chamomile, and a fragrance-free formula is also available.

Air quality has a real impact on your health and well-being, and the Coway Airmega 350 is a smart option for improving it at home. It’s adjustable, and we love that it has a built-in sensor to measure the current air quality in your home. It’s also quick to set up, and the filter is easy to clean. Editor Nicole Bonaccorso found that this definitely helped the air quality in her home: “I notice a difference in breathing and allergies when this air purifier is running,” she says, adding “The air just seems generally lighter and easier to breathe.”

When you are trying to avoid getting sick, portable wipes are essential. Not only can you use them to sanitize your hands, but you can also wipe down your phone, purse, door handles, or anything else you come into contact with. Noshinku wipes are packaged in a small, portable, resealable container, and we love that they don’t leave a film or sticky feeling behind after use.

These wipes come in a variety of scents, which come from essential oils in the formula (no artificial fragrances). “Noshinku uses essential oils instead of artificial fragrances; these claims aside, they put a lot of thought into their scents, which is a nice change of pace from the high-octane alcohol-forward scents most sanitizers have,” says Tuttle.

Our testers reviewed hundreds of different products, but for this list, we only included our favorites. Several others that stood out include:

The Fitbit Sense 2 has a reliable heart rate monitor to track your vitals during exercise and features like a stress detector to help you tune in to your self-care needs. We did not choose it because it is primarily focused on fitness, which may not be your priority when you’re sick. If you need to track your sleep to improve rest quality, the Qualo QRNT Smart Ring is also a good option. It is customizable and easy to use. However, the ring itself can be a bit bulky, which some find uncomfortable.

If you are looking for a quality humidifier on a budget, the Veva is a solid choice at under $50 and offers good performance for the price. We ended up not putting it on our list, though, because it can be prone to leaking. If you want a smart humidifier you can control remotely, the Levoit Superior 6000S is a great option. It’s quiet and adjustable, and is designed to cover an entire home. However, its higher price point makes it less accessible than other options we tested.

The PureZone Duo Tabletop Air Purifier impressed us because, despite its compact size, it purifies over 600 square feet. It also has a built-in nightlight that is great for kids and three fan speeds. Ultimately, though, it did not offer as many customization options as the Coway Airmega.

When searching for the best products for cold and flu season, I spoke with three medical doctors, including two who specialize in infectious diseases. They shared information on the products they use themselves and recommend to their patients. I also tested some of the products on this list personally. In addition, our team's writers and editors tested, used, and recommended many of these products. We’ve tested hundreds of products, and I combed through those insights and feedback to select the best ones that offer comfort, pain relief, or help ease cold and flu symptoms.

I consulted these experts:

• Charles Bailey, MD, fellow of the Infectious Disease Society of America (FIDSA) and medical director of infection prevention at Providence St. Joseph Hospital and Providence Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, California

• Steven Goldberg, MD, CMO at HealthTrackRx, in Denton, Texas

• James Keegan, MD, an infectious disease specialist in Rapid City, South Dakota, and advisor to the South Dakota Department of Health

According to Keegan, “The influenza vaccine effectiveness varies each year depending on the match of the vaccine with the circulating influenza strains.” It can both prevent certain strains of the flu and reduce the severity of the illness if you do get sick. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the flu vaccine is 40 to 60 percent effective in preventing the flu. Keegan noted that it tends to be most effective in young people who do not have other medical conditions.

“[It is] very important to consider the influenza vaccination each year, not only for oneself but to protect the people you are around, particularly the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions, including immune suppression,” says Keegan. In other words, the vaccine protects you, as well as everyone you come into contact with.

Dr. Bailey says, “The precise effectiveness of each year's flu shot can only be determined after the flu season has concluded and the incidence of flu is compared to prior years. Generally, effectiveness estimates range from 30 to 60 percent.”

Bailey says that it’s good to prepare in advance for flu season: “Continue good health practices; avoid becoming run down from insufficient sleep, increased stress, or eating and drinking ‘overindulgence’; plus get a flu shot.”

He also recommends the standard advice to eat well, get enough sleep, and reduce stress. “Getting a flu vaccination is the best protection for an individual to minimize the risk of severe influenza or hospitalization. Frequent handwashing is a great idea year-round, but is especially important during flu season if out and about,” says Dr. Goldberg.

The CDC indicates that both cold and flu are terms for respiratory diseases. They are both highly contagious and share some symptoms, including coughing, sneezing, a stuffy nose, and a sore throat. The flu tends to onset quickly, while cold symptoms tend to build over hours or a few days. The flu is also more likely to include fatigue, fever, aches, and chills.

Bailey says, “Although both illnesses share some respiratory symptoms such as cough or nasal congestion [or] runny nose, flu should be considered with headache, body aches, or fever, while sore throat is more common with colds.”

Goldberg agrees, saying, “Flu typically presents with symptoms that develop over a few hours, with patients often recalling the exact time they became ill. In contrast, the common cold usually has a gradual onset over one to two days, with initial symptoms of mild sore throat or nasal congestion that progress to a runny nose and cough.”

Keegan shared that people often use the term “flu” to refer to any illness, but influenza is a specific virus. “Influenza is a respiratory infection, which distinguishes it from intestinal viruses or food poisoning. The key distinguishing features are sudden onset, severe muscle aches (people report feeling as though they were hit by a truck), cough, weakness, and malaise. These symptoms can be milder if a person has had an influenza vaccination,” he says.

Hallmark flu symptoms include respiratory issues, such as cough, as well as muscle aches and fever. Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea, may suggest a different illness. Your doctor can test you specifically for the flu.

If you are experiencing symptoms of illness, it is important to consult your primary doctor or medical professional to determine what course of treatment is appropriate for you based on your unique medical history and background. Additionally, because the flu is contagious, it is essential to protect others by staying home and wearing a mask to prevent the virus from spreading.

Keegan advises that people at higher risk of complications or hospitalization seek medical care early, when antiviral medications are most effective.