The flu has hit home. My household had a brush with what I thought was the flu a couple of weeks ago, but obviously it was not the flu. Maybe a cousin or distant relative, but a far cry from what has now taken up residence in my home. Lysol has become a good friend. Speaking of which, according to Dr. Jim Sears and Lysol, these are the five best things you can do to safeguard against the flu:

1. Frequent hand washing. Think soap and water, or hand sanitizer.
2. Regular surface disinfection. Disinfecting surfaces like counters, faucets and doorknobs keeps you healthy. I’ve been using Lysol wipes this time around–so much easier than pulling out separate cleaning products and towels.
3. Good nutrition and regular exercise. Eating well and exercising helps to boost your immune system, so you can better ward off illness.
4. Stay well-stocked. Keep cleaning supplies, soaps, and medicines on hand, so you have them when you need them. I’ve discovered kid-friendly “sore throat” lolli-pops are a good addition to the medicine chest.
5. Talk with your doctor, in advance. Discuss what, if any, steps you should take to stay healthy (e.g., flu shot) and learn what medicines you should keep in your home–so you are prepared when the cold or flu strikes.

Since I’m convinced that my toddler’s contact with a germ infested shopping cart has something to do with this plague, I think cart cover is a reasonable addition to the list. Oh, and add lots and lots of laundry detergent to the list, too.

What additions would you make to this list?