Picture this scenario: You fall ill with COVID-19 and feel overwhelmed and unsure about your next steps. Now, imagine the immense relief that washes over you when you have a COVID-19 home care kit ready to go. It's more than just a kit; it's peace of mind.
Life has a way of surprising us, and COVID-19 is a testament to that. While none of us ever expects to get this virus, we can absolutely prepare ourselves for the unexpected.
In this blog post, we're covering everything you need to know about:
Stock up on alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content, and ensure you have ample soap for regular handwashing. It is important to wash your hands regularly, especially when you are contagious.
Masks are an effective barrier against the spread of COVID-19. Have high-quality and appropriately sized masks on hand for everyone in the family caring for someone sick or using shared spaces. Click here to find free masks in your community.
Gloves come in handy (pun intended!) when touching items from a sick family member or taking care of them.
Cleaning high-touch areas like door knobs, light switches, and shared devices is a must when you or a family member is contagious.
A reliable thermometer can help you accurately monitor your fever, a common symptom of COVID-19. Visit our FAQ section for more information about common symptoms of COVID-19.
An oximeter measures your oxygen levels and can provide early warning signs if your respiratory health is declining.
Ensure you have a supply of prescription medications and regular vitamins or supplements so you don't run out while recovering from COVID-19.
Keep fever reducers, cough medicine, anti-inflammatories, lozenges, and other common illness medications on hand.
Build a stash of non-perishable food items like soup, juice, crackers, pasta, rice, and canned fruits and vegetables. Prioritize nutrient-rich grab-and-go options to ensure you can continue nourishing yourself even when you're not feeling well enough to cook.
Stay hydrated with an adequate supply of bottled water. Bottled water is helpful when you are too sick to regularly refill your water.
The path to recovery from COVID-19 can be long, and the symptoms may take a toll on your well-being. Consider adding these extras to your kit for a touch of comfort and distraction:
Recovering from an illness sometimes feels like an eternity, especially if you're isolated from the outside world. To combat the monotony and boost your spirits, include items like books, puzzles, or even a streaming service subscription in your kit. These forms of entertainment provide a much-needed escape from reality and keep your mind engaged.
Little comforts can make a big difference when you aren't feeling well!
Soft, cozy blankets and comfortable pillows transform your space into a haven of relaxation. Aromatherapy can create a soothing atmosphere through candles and essential oil diffusers with scents like lavender or eucalyptus.
And don't forget to treat yourself to your favorite snacks or comfort foods to lift your spirits and help you stay nourished.
Prioritizing your mental health when you are sick is important, and having access to the right resources makes a big difference.
Consider diving into self-help books or journaling. Meditation and mindfulness apps teach you to manage your stress and anxiety, which might be at an all-time high as you recover!
Virtual therapy sessions, readily available from many therapists, offer professional support if you are overwhelmed or struggling.
Unlocking the full potential of your COVID-19 home care kit involves more than just stocking it with essentials. We've got a few additional tips to help you maximize its effectiveness.
In the unfortunate event that you or a household member falls ill with COVID-19, you should have a plan in place to minimize the potential impact of the virus.
If possible, designate specific rooms for isolation and separate bathroom use to minimize the risk of spreading the virus within your household. Make sure the sick individual has access to all necessary items from the kit to support their recovery. Check out our blog post about preventing the spread of COVID-19 for more tips on staying safe.
Regular maintenance of your COVID-19 home care kit will help ensure its effectiveness. Keep these things in mind:
A well-stocked COVID-19 home care kit might make all the difference in your comfort and well-being if you get sick. We encourage you to assemble your kit now, so that you have everything you need if you contract COVID-19 and are stuck at home.
While COVID-19's unpredictability is a constant, proactive preparedness is a powerful way to regain a sense of control and readiness.
