Coronavirus: Are We Prepared for Winter?
Year after year it’s the same story. As temperatures start to get colder outside, the common cold and influenza, along with other infections, tend to worsen and spread on a much wider scale. This primarily happens because we are all forced indoors in poorly ventilated buildings, surrounded by coworkers and fellow students that at a first glance may only have a noticeable sniffle.
Before too long you’re calling off work with a 101-degree fever or because you’re halfway through the process of hacking up your left lung. Coronavirus: are we prepared for winter? Let’s find out! In case you missed this post, 35 OTC Medications You Should Store
Coronavirus: Are We Prepared for Winter?
Only this year there’s a new variable that we have to account for, Coronavirus. You’ve probably grown tired of hearing about it, (as have I) but if we become complacent as temperatures start to grow colder, this winter’s coronavirus cases might escalate into something even worse than the initial outbreak. Experts are already saying that the numbers and cases could more than double, in a worst-case scenario.
So the question is, are you prepared for this winter? Even though it may still be summer, and we’re experiencing warm weather day after day, the time to prepare is now. Here’s how you and your family can take steps to keep healthy, even in the midst of a possible perfect winter storm.
Get a Flu Shot
I’ll just say this right upfront. No, the flu shot will not prevent you and your loved ones from contracting Covid-19, but it could keep it from spreading as easily. There’s the slim possibility that a patient could be battling influenza and Covid-19 at the same exact time, where they’re sneezing and coughing, allowing both viruses to spread simultaneously.
During the winter, the coronavirus cases will certainly become harder to track, because they share several of the same symptoms of other respiratory infections. This will undoubtedly cause Covid-19 statistics to go askew, but all health experts still agree on one thing.
The health experts suggest as many people as possible should consider getting the flu vaccination this fall. Let me be clear here, I am not advocating for or against flu shots.
Keep Up With Your Health
Being locked down in our homes for a few months earlier this year due to Covid-19 was difficult to say the least. It was challenging not only on our physical health, but our mental health as well. It’s important that you continue to keep up, both physically and mentally, so that you aren’t more likely to get sick.
Though you’ve heard it time and time again, continue to keep your hands washed with soap and warm water to prevent any germs from spreading. It will also be important that you keep up on your vitamin C and D, which both play important roles in proper body functions. It’s also a good idea that you find an indoor activity or exercise that you enjoy doing so that you continue to stay active and both physically and mentally strong.
Open a Window
Colder weather, along with shorter days, means less time that we can spend outdoors. Because of this, we’re exposing ourselves to crowded areas, and at times, poorly ventilated rooms. This allows for more densely spread virus particles to navigate the same air that we breathe. If you can get a really good humidifier, I highly recommend one. I have one going 24/7.
Opening up a window may help to make a difference. Yes, this may do a bit of harm to your utility rates this winter, but opening up a window can not only give you a bit of fresh cool air, but allows virus particles to spread out more and dissipate. If it bugs you to see the warm air pumped outdoors, open the window(s) for short periods of time, and try opening windows in various rooms.
Continue with Sanitizing Surfaces
I’m sure that you’ve been sanitizing the surfaces in your home and in the office more than you ever have in your life. But with winter coming fast upon us, you’ll have to do so even more rigorously and faithfully. Why you may ask?
Cooler weather, along with lower humidity, gives viruses the perfect conditions to last much longer on surfaces that we tend to touch often. Some scientists have insisted that the virus can last up to 10 times longer in the cold.
During the winter viruses can stay alive on surfaces for a number of days. We then turn around and touch our face, lips, eyes, and nose with the same hands that touched the surface that contained the virus.
Stock Up on Food, Supplies, and Medications
If we wind up facing another lockdown during winter, not only will fewer places be open, but supplies will be harder to come by as well. If the cases start to get out of hand again, we may begin to notice grocery shelves becoming depleted once again.
Stocking up on canned and dried foods for your pantry would be a smart move. Having a stock of foods also means fewer visits to the grocery store and increasing the chances of your family being exposed.
Now’s the time to make sure that your toilet paper, hand sanitizer, disinfectants, and face mask supplies are well established, along with over the counter prescriptions, vitamins, and other medical supplies you might need.
Related: Vitamin D Deficiency is Common Start Stocking It
Final Word
This winter we need to hope for the best but prepare for the worst. You and I should do this so that we can keep our families healthy, and protect those around us who are more vulnerable to the virus. If everyone were to take action now before winter is upon us, the risks of a resurgence would be far less severe, and more lives in your community could be saved.
Remember to wash your hands often, and sanitize surfaces in your work area and in your home that get touched on a daily basis. Getting the flu vaccine may also help to slow the spread. Here again, I am not advocating for or against the flu shot, let me make this clear.
Also, be sure to have a healthy stock of health supplies and over the counter medicines that could be harder to come by if another hysterical hoarding situation were to happen again. What do you think about Coronavirus: are we prepared for winter? May God bless this world, Linda
Copyright Images: Cleaning Supplies Deposit photos_118711702_s-2019, Open Windows Deposit photos_8877408_s-2019
Linda, we just ordered our supplements for the next several months from Swanson Vitamins. Both orders were filled & shipped the next day. I was able to get the Elderberry syrup I prefer and the homeopathic cold/flu remedy I use. Supplies are readily available right now. …. they may not be in another month or two.
I also ordered some seeds for fall planting. I will be picking up some more seed packets from the feed stores to save for next year.
I’ve been saving seeds from the heritage veggies that have been most productive this year. Really excited about that, as my fennel had never flowered until this year. Those seeds can be planted or used in cooking.
I also found a Roma type tomato & a sweet pepper that flourished in my garden, so will be saving seeds from both of those.
Take care! Prayers for all.
Hi BDN, yay, getting prepared before we must be prepared. You know I LOVE hearing this! We must have good garden seeds like you mentioned and save the seeds. It’s critical we do this. I remember growing up we always had “sprouts” of tomatoes from the previous season. This is because they were non-GMO seeds. A few young families may not realize the seeds that are the good ones. Keep it up my friend, stay safe. Linda
Ive never had a flu shot. Haven’t had the flu in over 30 years. I did get the pneumonia shot in July. We have been stocking up on all items that we use. We get 90 day prescriptions on most prescriptions we take. I will stock up on multi-vitamins. We’ve been collecting seeds for next years garden. I’ve made about 2.5 gallons of powdered laundry soap, and have the items needed for more. 1-2 Tablespoons per load. I still want another large bottle of Dawn dish soap. And a couple of more packs of toilet tissue and paper towels. We do mail order some items, but also buy local. We price check and see which is more economical and order that. We’ve ordered from Walmart and Amazon. I want to get about 10 more pounds of flour and some more yeast, if I can find it. I might need another 5 pounds of sugar. We don’t use a lot of it, though. We use Stevia, Splenda, or Truvia mostly. But not real often.
Hi Deborah, keep me posted if you cannot find yeast. I have plenty but would be happy to find some for you and ship it to you. Do you use SAF yeast? I store the excess in the freezer. My monthly yeast I store in the frig. I have had to buy the 19-ounce bottles of Dawn dish soap because soap is becoming scarce. Keep it up my friend, we must. Linda
Early this year, when yeast in stores was hard to find I bought a 2 lb block of Red Star active dry yeast and put it in the freezer. After being there for six months my wife had run out of her other yeast and dug it out to use it–she was making pizza dough and homemade bread. After allowing it to thaw she took out what she needed and re-froze the rest. It worked beautifully. Other Preppers we know said it will keep well for up to two years. I’m looking forward to finding out if that’s true or not.
Oh, we now know this also works with Fleishmann’s yeast.
I know this. Linda Loosli has never steered us wrong.
Hi Ray, you are so nice! I have yeast that is 5 years old and it still works from the freezer. I have been making bread for 50+ years, I turned 70 this year!! Oh my gosh, 50+ years of bread making. Oh, there is nothing better than homemade pizza dough and of course, bread. I can smell some baking right now! Love you Ray, stay safe, Linda
Linda,
I bake a mean loaf of blueberry zucchini bread and my wife bakes the best pies, breads, cookies and brownies I’ve ever tasted. We mail them to friends and family at holidays and they are always much anticipated.
Take care and keep writing these great articles.
Hi Ray, I LOVE hearing this! I think baking in the kitchen is the best thing ever!!! Thanks again, Linda
I should have explained better. I bake breads in my All American sun oven. Love it because nothing ever burns. My wife uses the oven in our kitchen but I like using the sun oven since it doesn’t heat our kitchen up (an important consideration when it’s 110 F outside).
Hi Ray, I LOVE hearing that you use your Sun Oven! I love that it never burns anything or overcooks the bread if I forget it’s baking! Great reminder for those who need to use their Sun Oven more often! Love it! Linda
Ray, it keeps longer than that! I had a 2# block in the freezer from Sams (unopened) for SIX YEARS.
I totally forgot it was there. Worked like a charm. 🙂
Jamie
Hi Jamie, thanks for letting Ray know, Linda
Deborah, sugar can also be a good trade commodity. Just saying. My wife and I don’t smoke or drink (well not more than a few drinks per year–usually Margaritas served with Mexican foods) but we have liquor and cigarettes stored for trade.
Hi Ray, I don’t drink or smoke either but during this COVID quarantine I think we could have all use a Margarita or two! Sugar is a great thing to stock up on for bartering and cooking. I have a sweet tooth, and if I can make some brownies after a disaster, bring it on! I love your bartering items. Linda
I’ll have to look and see how much I already have. We bought a 13 pound bag several years ago. I like to buy my flour in bulk, too. I have some in storage, some in the freezer and 10 pounds in the fridge. I did order some yeast. Or put it in my wish list for hubby to order. He’s an Amazon prime member.
Hi Deborah, wow, 13 pounds of yeast is a lot! I only buy about 5-one pound SAF’s that I will store for 3-4 years. I’m glad you will get more yeast, it will become scarce again, trust me. Linda
Not yeast sugar. 13 pound bag of sugar. Sorry
Hi Deborah, oh my gosh, that totally makes sense! We need to stock up on sugar as well! Linda
I’ll let you know. Thank you for the offer. I haven’t has a problem finding dish soap, yet. I have used SAF yeast. And Fleshmans. I make homemade bread and want to be ready if/when I need to again. We do love homemade bread, and rolls. Nothing tastes or smells as good.
Hi Deborah, I just found some SAF Instant yeast on Amazon. Please check it out. It looks like the same price I used to pay for it. Just freeze a couple of packages. Linda
You can make your own YEAST. Google ( D.I.Y. Hoe to make yeast at home ) this sight shows pictures and explained how to make it. You do need ( 3 ) packs the first time. When you get down to 1/4 or 1/5 left you will also have the instructions to make more from your original batch. Yea ! No more running out . It is just a very little slower , but just as good as store bought. Best of luck to all for the flu / con 19 this up coming season…. Michele
Hi Michele, thank you for the tip! I wrote a post on how to make sourdough bread with making your own yeast with two ingredients. Flour and water, it’s so easy. We must be prepared to make bread to survive. Linda
I would love to have your flour/ water yeast. I have checked all of your saved articles and for some reason I can’t find it. If you would run it again it would make me very happy. I make all of my condiments from scratch and i’m Always looking for more to add to my personal cook book. If you have a Campbell Soup recipe go on Google and like with the yeast , ask for D.I.Y. From scratch Campbell chicken gumbo, or whatever soup you would like and , let’s just say I have a number of them that I have modified for my family, and what ever is ripe in my garden…. Have. God filled day….. Michele
Hi Michele, here is the link. People are charging for classes to make this, it’s ridiculous. Just make sure you use reverse osmosis water or filtered water (Chlorinated water kills it, like tap water). https://www.foodstoragemoms.com/sourdough-starter/ It’s easy to make and I have pictures. I’m a visual person. Linda
I am feeling pretty confident that I have a good stock of all the necessities for the winter cold and flu season. I will be stocking up on more tea though – I drink a locally blended herbal tea when I am sick! I also have a DIY elderberry syrup kit from Seattle Elderberry to make a batch of syrup, although I have made elderberry tincture before that I think is better because it lasts longer having been steeped in vodka.
Something that I was doing pre-COVID, was going pretty close to zero waste – I stopped using paper products but with all that is going on and with cold and flu season coming up, I have stocked up on tissues, paper towels, TP and the like. When I have the sniffles or am coughing a lot from a cold, I don’t want to run out of my hankies so I purchased some tissues just the other day. They won’t be used unless/until I have a cold so hoping they will last for a few months.
For those who live in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah and California – if you are close to a Smart Food Service (do a google search) they are a Restaurant/Kitchen supply company and most of their products are in bulk sizes. You DO NOT need to be a restaurant or other large purchaser! At least in the one close to my home you don’t. I go in periodically for one or two items! They have bulk flour, yeast, sugar, beans, rice, well, just about anything that a restaurant would use but they do also sell many things in much smaller quantities. For example, I purchased a 5 pound bag of bread flour the other day. Didn’t buy yeast as I have very limited freezer space and could not accommodate that large of a container in my tiny freezer. But, if I had more storage space for frozen goods, I would totally go there for meat, frozen veggies, etc.
Sorry, Linda, but the only Smart Food Service I see in Utah is in SLC!
Hi Leanne, thanks for the tip, I did not know they have one in SLC! I will tell my daughters who live up there!! My daughter in California shops there all the time. Plus she has Trader Joe’s, not great for food storage, but I LOVE that place. We do not have one in Southern Utah so it’s a treat for me to visit one when I can. Stay well, Linda
I have a Trader Joe’s in walking distance but I rarely shop there. I don’t find the prices that great and they have some items that are definitely trigger foods for me!! The little cranberry/orange scones are SO good but if I go shopping there, I end up with a couple of packages in my cart and I cannot stop at just one!! It was a real novelty when they came into my town but the novelty wore off.
Hi Leanne, maybe that’s why I wish I had a Trader Joe’s. I have only been in one 3 or 4 times. Those scones sound yummy! I guess it’s good I don’t have one close near my home. The closest one is at least 300 miles away! Linda
Linda,
Having a humidifier going and well humidified air, helps lower the spread of covid. UV lights installed on the furnace, and anti viral filters help also.
Just got my flu shot. Got a pneumonia shot last year. Keep safe.
Hi Janet, oh my gosh, I need to add the humidifier, I have one going 24/7. Thanks for the reminder! Linda
I have just recently heard about the UV light for the furnace. Can anyone explain if it is worth it for our home. Thank you
Hi Chris,
We have a U.V. light on our furnace. They are expensive, and the bulb needs replaced yearly. It is supposed to kill germs. (I have one on my water treatment, too).
If you are a do it yourselfer, you can buy one off Amazon, and install it yourself for less. I keep my furnace fan running so the air gets circulated and germs are killed. Make sure not to look at it when it is running, and use gloves to replace the bulb.
Hi Janet, thanks for sharing your knowledge of the UV light for furnaces. I need to look into this. Linda
Hi Chris, this would be good to know. Thanks to Janet above for her help. Linda
If you bake, you’ll need flour. Lots of flour. We have jars of vacuum packed flour. Also a 5 gallon food grade bucket full, and a 5-gallon bucket for sugar. I need to check them for the amounts. I always put a few bay leaves in all of my buckets of food stuff. It deters bugs. Cornmeal is good to have on hand, too. Any baking needs. I also need to check on my baking soda stash and baking powder. I have several different containers of spices, and several boxes of Cocoa powder. Vanilla flavoring is a needed item as well. I did buy several bottles of the maple flavoring. Don’t forget brown sugar and powdered sugar, although you can make powdered sugar out of regular sugar.
If you are really into prepping, get some books on herbs to use for medicine. I just got a couple I’m the last couple of weeks, as well as a First aid book. Loads of information.
Hi Deborah, this is a great reminder to stock up! Yes, I’m really into prepping, it’s a way of life for me. I was asked to write a book on prepping “Prepare Your Family For Survival by Linda Loosli”. Stay safe, Linda
I hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. This is how I grew up. My grandmother put up food in the summer, so they (we) could eat in the winter. They didn’t buy too much from the grocery store. As for meat, they had bacon or sausage for breakfast. Then we only had meat for dinner, maybe twice a week. My grandmother lived to be 101.5 years old. My grandfather died at 76 from pancreatic cancer.
Hi Deborah, wow, your grandmother lived a long time!! That pancreatic cancer is brutal, I saw a friend suffer through that cancer. Stay well, stay safe, Linda
My husband has chronic and acute pancreatitis. That is very painful, too. He’s had it since 1974. It’s gotten progressively worse. He had to retire due to that and a bad back. He retired at 58, just as his Dad did, but for different reasons.
I just got back from the grocery store. They had split chicken breasts, and rump roast for BOGO free. I got two of each. One was free. LOL I also got 5 pounds of flour. And some individual packages of yeast. That’s all they had, and had just gotten it in. I bought some baking soda and baking powder. Oh, and some cornstarch. Next time I’m getting extra salt. I don’t use a lot of it due to kidney disease and blood pressure, but it’s good for preserving foods. Canning mostly. I’ll also get more black pepper.
Hi Deborah, score on the buy you got today!! I love it! I’m so sorry to hear about your husband having to suffer for so many years with that pancreatitis, wow. Stay safe, Linda
It is what it is. We take it one day at a time. I thank God for every day I have with him. Going on 31 years so far. We are trying to stay healthy. I run the errands, and wear a mask, and use a lot of hand sanitizer when out. I don’t want to brink anything home to him. I also have some health issues, but not as bad as hubby does.
I forgot to tell you that I just got the Lost Book of Herbal Remedies Book. There is a lot of information in it. I also got a book on Survival, and one on First Aid. I’m learning so much from them.
Hi Deborah, I need to look for that Lost Book of Herbal Remedies!! You are finding some really good useful items!! Linda
As a nurse, I know that dressings with silver are good for wounds. Leery about ingesting silver –seen blue people. Trying to buy extra each week. Bought toothpaste yesterday because of your article about corn shortage. Read an article years ago to collect 90% silver coins because we might have to buy a loaf of bread for a dime or buy a gallon of gas for a quarter. Everything is so crazy now. Anything is possible.
Hi Linda, thank you for you comment on the silver as a dressing for wounds. I will not ingest colloidal silver ever. My neighbor a few years ago made her own concoction and she looks grayish-blue. It will never go away. Her words, not mine. I only use My Doctor Suggests “structured” silver, it is different than colloidal. Stay well, Linda
Hi,
Regarding the colloidal silver, you probably will find the gray people made it instead of purchasing it. In my experience, those who purchase a good colloidal silver and utilize it properly do not turn gray. I have used the purchased c. silver for my family, my pets and myself. Had some cats at various times for whom the c. silver gave them relief from their illness when regular medicine couldn’t. I would not make my own for a number of reasons, including turning gray.
Love hearing about everyone’s preps!
God bless Linda and this community,
Teddy
Hi Teddy, I’m with you, I buy mine! The people turn gray or blue who make their own C.silver in many cases. Stay safe, Linda
Linda, I got the book from Amazon. It was a tad expensive, but has so much information.
Hi Deborah, great idea! I know a girl that is a prepper that wrote one, but she’s always sick, so I just couldn’t bring myself to buy hers. I’m never sick, so why would I buy her herbal book. I will look for that one, thank you, Linda
I highly recommend it. But it’s an individual decision. I love herbal remedies. God made everything we need to stay and keep healthy. I believe this with my whole heart. Natural is always best.
Hi Deborah, I totally agree with you! Linda