What To Do When Your Whole Family is Sick

Oct 15

When everyone in your home comes down with something at the same time, it can feel impossible to keep up. The dishes pile up, no one is sleeping well, and you’re juggling care for kids, yourself, and maybe even grandparents too.

The good news: with some organization and teamwork, your family can recover faster and avoid spreading germs further.

If you've been contacted by Nest or your health plan, or think you and your family might be eligible, call us today at 866-222-NEST (6378).

Step 1 – Identify the Illness and Severity

Start by tracking each person’s symptoms. Write them down or use a shared note on your phone. This helps you notice patterns and catch early signs that someone may need more care.

Call a healthcare provider right away if anyone has:

A high or persistent fever
Trouble breathing or chest pain
Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears when crying, few wet diapers, or dark urine)
Extreme fatigue or confusion

If you’re unsure whether symptoms require an in-person visit, telehealth can help you decide next steps safely. Nest Health families can connect with our care team by phone or video anytime.

Learn more about care for families with Nest Health.

Step 2 – Prevent the Spread of Germs Within the Home

Keeping illness from spreading can make all the difference in how quickly your household recovers. Simple habits go a long way:

Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Disinfect high-touch areas like doorknobs, remotes, and countertops
Use separate towels, cups, and utensils for each person
If possible, create a “rest zone” for anyone with a contagious illness
Encourage mask use if someone is coughing, sneezing, or has respiratory symptoms

Small steps like these can protect those who aren’t sick yet—and help everyone feel better sooner.

Step 3 – Create a Manageable Care Routine

When everyone’s under the weather, structure helps.

Share responsibilities: If there are multiple adults, rotate caregiving duties and rest periods.
Keep meals simple: Soups, smoothies, and oatmeal are comforting and hydrating.
Stay stocked: Make sure you have essentials like thermometers, fever reducers, tissues, and hand sanitizer ready.

Even short breaks for caregivers matter. Take turns lying down or resting with the kids. A consistent rhythm helps everyone recover together without exhaustion.

Step 4 – Rest and Hydrate Together

Rest and fluids are the body’s best medicine. Keep water bottles or electrolyte drinks nearby and remind one another to sip throughout the day. Warm liquids like broth, herbal teas, or warm water with honey can soothe sore throats and replace lost fluids.

If energy allows, choose quiet family activities, reading together, listening to an audiobook, or watching a favorite show. Sometimes the best healing comes from simply slowing down together.

Step 5 – Support Mental Health During Sick Days

Being sick as a family can take a toll emotionally as well as physically. Kids may feel scared or frustrated. Parents may feel overwhelmed or guilty for not being able to do it all.

A few small actions can help:

Open the curtains or window for some sunlight and fresh air
Do light stretching or slow breathing exercises
Stay connected with loved ones through a quick call or text
Reassure children that everyone is working together to get better

If stress, anxiety, or sadness feel hard to manage, reach out for mental health support. Nest’s care teams include behavioral health professionals who can help families cope during and after illness.

Step 6 – Know When to Seek Professional Care

Most household illnesses get better with time and rest, but some need extra care. Call your provider if:

Symptoms worsen after several days
A fever lasts more than three days
Breathing problems, chest pain, or severe coughing appear
A child seems unusually drowsy or irritable

Nest Health makes it easy to get help when leaving home isn’t an option. Our care teams offer in-home visits and virtual appointments for the whole family, so you can focus on getting better instead of sitting in a waiting room.

Learn more at www.nesthealth.com.

Recover Faster with Nest Health

Caring for a sick household is never easy, but having the right support makes all the difference. Nest Health delivers coordinated, in-home, and virtual care for the entire family, for eligible families. You’ll avoid long urgent care waits, reduce exposure to more germs, and get personalized treatment that helps everyone recover faster.

If you've been contacted by Nest or your health plan, or think you and your family might be eligible, call us today at 866-222-NEST (6378).