A New Mum’s Guide to Surviving Winter Bugs

Bethany Jarroussie - 23 Jan 16

Until recently, a stinking cold (or flu as I always want to describe it, knowing full well that no matter how bad I feel it probably isn’t) was an excuse to feel sorry for myself, cancel all plans, stay in PJ’s all day and catch up on trash TV.

Then I had a baby, and these bouts of seasonal minging-ness took on a whole new complexion. With a small baby relying on me to keep her warm, fed and entertained, crawling into my pit isn’t an option, and because of those lovely sloppy baby kisses we enjoy, the chances are if one of us is ill the other is too. Sick babies can be extra clingy and demanding so it’s all about prioritizing and using diminished resources of energy and patience where they will have the most effect.

Here are a few things that I have found that make the whole thing a bit more bearable.

Get up & dressed

Seems a bit obvious really, but having a shower, brushing teeth and getting dressed makes me feel a million times better. Choose your outfit carefully. Those sloppy faded PJ’s might be easy but getting dressed makes you feel ready to face the day. Think comfy, but proper clothes, even if the only person you will see today is the Ocado delivery man. Today I opted for my nice new jeans that fit properly and do good things to my bum, my favourite ‘Maman’ sweatshirt and cashmere socks. Also, forgo those big granny pants and pick your slinkiest pair. OK, so you’re not about to seduce anyone but it’s impossible to feel quite so gross when you’re wearing a pair of Agent Provocateur knickers.

Pop some pills

When I’m feeling really rubbish I often forget that there are things out there designed to make you feel better. If you can’t make it to the chemist, accept the kindly offers of help from friends and neighbours and ask for supplies. Now is not the time to be a martyr.

Use the window

There’s always a window – after a nap or a round of pill popping – when you feel marginally better. Don’t waste this time catching up on Instagram, but do something which will make you feel better when you’re back to feeling sorry for yourself in 10 mins time. Empty or load the dishwasher, or pick up the snotty tissues scattered all over the floor. You will be glad you did.

Ditch the diet

Who cares if there’s a Tupperware full of quinoa salad in the fridge? Eat for comfort and convenience. I find bacon sandwiches washed down with a large mug of coffee does the trick, for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If the cupboards are bare, get an online grocery delivery. In fact get one anyway; I can’t think how I managed before I discovered the joys of grocery shopping delivered to the door.

Get all the toys out

We have a big chest full of toys, and this morning it was upturned and the contents spread across the living room floor. The idea here is to keep the baby occupied long enough so you can Google ‘when was the last time someone died from flu?’ in peace.

Have a drink

The medical advice is always ‘drink plenty of fluids’. I think they mean water and suchlike, but I don’t see the harm in something a bit stronger. Whatever gets you through the day.

Enjoy the cuddles

Sick babies make good cuddlers, so while there’s nothing much else to do, enjoy snuggling up under a blanket with your little bundle of snotty joy.

Bethany Jarroussie

Bethany Jarroussie. UX consultant, shoe maker, mother, sister and all round family bird. Adjusting to life +1. London, UK

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