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Flu season can become even harder to manage when severe storms, power outages and icy roads disrupt daily life. Preparing for illness and winter emergencies at the same time can help households stay safer and healthier.

An annual flu vaccine remains the strongest defense against influenza, particularly for young children, older adults, pregnant people and those with chronic health conditions. Regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding face-touching and disinfecting frequently used surfaces can also limit the spread of illness.

Households should keep basic over-the-counter treatments available for symptoms such as fever, body aches, coughing and sore throat. Pain relievers, decongestants and cough drops may be useful. Anyone who becomes sick should drink plenty of water, broth or electrolyte beverages and get enough sleep and rest to recover.

Winter emergency kits should include nonperishable food, water, blankets, flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies and other essentials. Fever reducers, cold medicines, anti-diarrheal medication, bandages, antiseptic and thermometers can make the kit more useful if illness strikes during a storm.

Generators and power banks can provide backup electricity during outages, but generators, grills and camping stoves should never be operated indoors because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Homes should also have working carbon monoxide alarms. Gas stoves and ovens should not be used for heat; warm layers and fire-safe space heaters are safer options.

Travel should be limited to essential trips during winter storms, and vehicles should carry emergency supplies. People with asthma, diabetes or other chronic illnesses should maintain backup medication and medical supplies in case hazardous conditions delay access to care.

High-protein foods, fluids and electrolyte beverages can help people stay nourished while sick or isolated by severe weather. Combining those supplies with flu prevention and safe emergency planning can reduce the strain when winter weather and illness arrive together.