The Post-It Place

This year it seems that we just keep hearing more and more about the flu…and different kinds of flu. Last night we went to Karate and there were only 6 people there. SIX! Normally there are about 20-30. Everyone is sick. They have said that there are so many kids out of school due to illness that they were considering shutting it down for a few days. And it seems like I know more people that have been sick this year with the flu than ever before. In light of that I am getting prepared , meet my arsenal of products in case we get infected:

The Braun ThermoScan thermometer, Vicks ComfortFlex thermometers and brand new Vicks Pediatric GermFree Cool Mist humidifier are the best when it comes to detecting, relieving, and helping prevent families from getting sick.  Each is available at WalMart, Walgreens, Amazon.com and other major drug stores throughout the country making them both accessible and affordable.

Braun ThermoScan is not only used most by pediatricians, but is a must-have for new parents, as it can be used from birth in the ear. Because fever is one of the first signs of the flu, the ThermoScan features a multiple memory function, allowing you to monitor fever’s progress. The pre-warmed tip and patented guidance system ensure an accurate reading every time. SRP $39.99 – $49.99. This thermometer is so easy to use without being invasive which is perfect for kids who are not feeling well and just want comfort.

For use orally, rectally or under the arm, the Vicks SpeedRead Insight Thermometer and Vicks ComfortFlex InSight Thermometer take accurate readings in as little as 8 seconds and feature a large, circular display for easy reading. Even middle-of-the-night readings are made easier by the convenient backlight. Both thermometers are waterproof for easy cleaning, and have memory recall to help parents keep track as fevers progress. Vicks SpeedRead Insight Thermometer features a rigid tip, while the Vicks ComfortFlex InSight Thermometer features a flexible tip, giving moms and caretakers the option depending on their preference. SRP $9 – $14. These thermometers are great for middle of the night readings when you don’t want to turn on a harsh light.

The new Vicks Pediatric GermFree Cool Mist humidifier was just introduced for this cold & flu season – and is the first of its kind. It kills up to 99.9% of mold and bacteria through a patented germ-killing UV light chamber and has an automatic moisture balance system that naturally adjusts output for maximum comfort. It’s cool, soothing mist is also ideal for children’s bedrooms or a nursery. SRP $69.99. I love that the new Vick’s humidifier kills germs…I remember those old warm-air humidifiers that collected mold and mildew. Now you can rest assured that Vicks has you covered…safely.

Braun and Vicks have worked together to help all of us survive this flu season with as much comfort as possible, they have even teamed up with Dr. Jennifer Trachtenberg, a New York pediatrician, to provide you with some tips on how to make this year’s cold and flu season a little more endurable for both children and parents:

* Don’t get Mouthy with Me!

Replace your child’s toothbrush frequently and keep it separate from other family members’ brushes when sick. If penny pinching, try soaking it in mouthwash after each use.

* Mommy’s Dearest

Fever is often one of the first signs of the flu. When temperature-taking, reach for what’s trusted. The Braun ThermoScan Ear Thermometer, which is used most by pediatricians and moms, features a pre-warmed tip and guidance system to ensure consistent readings. Vicks digital thermometers, which are pocket-sized and great for on-the-go, have a large display that changes color to help parents identify a fever.

* Find a Little Teapot, Short & Stout

Try using a neti pot to loosen and rid mucus, thereby clearing nasal passages. Neti pots have been used in India for centuries as one of the disciplines of yoga. For nasal congestion in babies, consider using 2-3 drops of nasal saline drops in each nostril, which are gentler, to help loosen and clear mucus.

* Better than a Spoonful of Sugar

Soothe sore throats and help the medicine go down by gargling with salt water. This is the safest, least expensive way to reduce scratchiness and swelling in the tissues. Mix one teaspoon of salt per pint of warm water to create the gargle.

* Black & White and Read All Over

Before tossing out an old phone book or using it to prop a door, try propping something else. Lying down can worsen congestion and increase sinus pressure and pain. Place a phone book or two under your mattress at night to elevate the head and lessen over-night congestion. If you have an infant, you can also prop a crib mattress to create elevation.

* Bedside Manner

Humidifiers keep the mucus membranes of the throat and nasal passages hydrated, allowing the tiny hairs in the airway to work at expelling germs. Throughout the night, try using a cool mist humidifier to soothe cold and cough symptoms, like the new Vicks GermFree Humidifier that kills up to 99.9% of mold and bacteria in the water.

**Jennifer Trachtenberg, MD, FAAP, is chief pediatric officer for RealAge.com and a mom of three active young children. The nationally renowned parenting expert and board-certified pediatrician has practiced pediatric and adolescent medicine for more than 14 years and maintains a successful private practice in New York City. She is also an assistant clinical professor in pediatrics at The Mount Sinai Medical Center and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Braun and Vick provided me with a sample product to thank me for helping to spread the word about how to make your flu season this year a little more bearable. I was in no other way compensated for this post. Please remember that individual results may vary.