Rest and sleep as much as possible
Drink plenty of fluids (water, tea, broth)
Use saline nasal spray or rinse several times daily
Take a hot shower or steam inhalation to loosen congestion
Use a humidifier in your room if you have one
Soothe sore throat with warm salt-water gargles
Use throat lozenges or hard candy to reduce irritation
Manage fever or aches with acetaminophen or ibuprofen (follow label directions)
Consider an antihistamine for runny nose or sneezing (follow label directions)
Consider a decongestant for severe nasal congestion (follow label directions; avoid if you have certain conditions)
Consider guaifenesin for chest congestion (follow label directions)
Eat light, nutritious foods; don’t force heavy meals
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Limit strenuous exercise
Stay home and reduce contact with others to prevent spread
Wash hands frequently and avoid touching your face
If you have access to testing and symptoms are severe, consider contacting a clinician to rule out flu/COVID
Seek urgent care if you have trouble breathing, severe chest pain, confusion, dehydration, or worsening symptoms
Contact a clinician if fever lasts more than 3 days, symptoms last more than 10 days, or you have significant underlying health conditions