When a COVID-19 diagnosis requires home recovery, having the right supplies helps manage symptoms and protect others in the household. This guide provides a practical shopping list focused on physical comfort, effective symptom management, and safe isolation protocols. Preparing these items ahead of time minimizes stress and allows the focus to remain on rest and recovery.
Over-the-Counter Medications and Health Monitoring Tools
Managing common symptoms like fever, headache, and body aches is a primary concern during home isolation. Over-the-counter pain and fever reducers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help alleviate these discomforts. Read labels carefully when using multi-symptom cold or flu products, as exceeding the maximum daily dose of acetaminophen can cause liver damage.
For respiratory symptoms, cough suppressants containing dextromethorphan can quiet a persistent dry cough. Expectorants, such as those containing guaifenesin, help thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to clear from the chest. Nasal congestion and a runny nose may be eased by nasal saline sprays, which moisturize the nasal passages, or by oral antihistamines.
A digital thermometer is necessary for accurately tracking body temperature, a common indicator of illness severity. Tracking fever trends helps determine if the condition is improving or worsening. A pulse oximeter is also useful, as it measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood (SpO2), which is relevant for a respiratory virus.
This small clip-on device provides a percentage reading of how effectively oxygen is distributed through the body. For most healthy individuals, a reading between 95% and 100% is typical. A reading consistently below 95% signals the need to contact a healthcare provider for advice. Readings that drop to 92% or lower are considered a serious concern and warrant immediate medical attention.
Essential Hydration and Nutritional Items
Fighting a viral illness often involves symptoms like fever, vomiting, or diarrhea, which contribute to fluid and electrolyte loss. Replacing these lost minerals is necessary for maintaining fluid balance, supporting muscle function, and preventing dehydration. Plain water should be supplemented with electrolyte solutions, such as oral rehydration salts or pediatric electrolyte drinks.
Many common sports drinks contain excessive sugar, which can worsen gastrointestinal distress, making low-sugar alternatives preferable for rehydration. Warm liquids like broths and herbal teas are also beneficial, as the warmth can soothe a sore throat and help thin respiratory secretions. Broth provides sodium, a necessary electrolyte.
Appetite loss and nausea are common during illness, making highly digestible, bland foods the best choice for maintaining energy. Items such as plain rice, crackers, toast, bananas, and applesauce are often well-tolerated and require minimal preparation. Shelf-stable foods like canned chicken noodle soup or quick-cooking oatmeal provide necessary calories and nutrients when the energy for cooking is limited.
Supplies for Safe Isolation and Preventing Spread
Effective isolation requires specific supplies to limit the risk of transmitting the virus to other household members. High-quality masks are a first line of defense; N95 or KN95 respirators are recommended for the infected person when moving through shared spaces, and for caregivers entering the sick person’s room. These masks filter out at least 95% of airborne particles.
Cleaning supplies should include an EPA-registered household disinfectant or a freshly prepared bleach solution (mixing 1/3 cup of bleach per gallon of water) for wiping down high-touch surfaces. Disposable gloves should be used when cleaning the sick person’s area or handling their laundry or dishes. Laundry from the sick individual can be washed with other household items, provided the warmest appropriate water setting is used and the items are dried completely.
Waste management requires attention to minimize exposure risk. A dedicated, lined trash can should be placed in the sick person’s isolation area for used tissues and disposable masks. Caregivers should use gloves when removing the trash bag and double-bag the waste before disposal to contain contaminated materials effectively.
Items to Improve Comfort During Recovery
Creating a comfortable environment supports the body’s ability to rest and recover during isolation. A humidifier, particularly a cool-mist model, adds moisture to the air, which helps thin mucus and soothe irritated airways, easing cough and congestion. Moist air also alleviates the discomfort of a dry throat and chapped lips.
Since recovery involves extended periods of rest, items for gentle distraction help pass the time and maintain morale. Books, crossword puzzles, streaming service access, or simple digital games provide necessary mental engagement. Small self-care items, such as lip balm, are helpful for addressing the physical side effects of fever and dehydration.