Flu and RSV are back – is your home winter-ready?

Breathe Easier This Cold Season

With winter now in full swing, Australians are seeing a spike in respiratory illnesses such as influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). According to the Australian Respiratory Surveillance Report (21 April – 4 May 2025), children aged 0–9 and adults over 70 are the most affected age groups this year¹.

While staying well during cold and flu season can be challenging, there are steps you can take at home to create a more comfortable and supportive environment for you and your family.

Why Consider a Humidifier in Winter?

Using a humidifier won't prevent or cure illness, but it can play a role in improving comfort while recovering from respiratory infections. During winter, indoor heating systems often dry out the air, which may worsen congestion, sore throats, and dry sinuses.

Maintaining balanced humidity levels may help:

• Soothe nasal passages and throat irritation
• Support better sleep and relaxation
• Create a gentler breathing environment for children and older adults

A 2023 review in Frontiers in Public Health suggests that indoor humidity levels between 40% and 60% may support the body’s natural defences against airborne viruses². However, humidifiers should always be used according to manufacturer instructions and cleaned regularly to avoid bacteria or mould build-up.

MedeScan Humidifiers: Designed for Australian Families

At MedeScan, we offer a range of non-medicated humidifiers designed to suit different homes and lifestyles:

• Warm Steam Humidifiers – Ideal for bedrooms during cold nights.
• Cool Mist Humidifiers – Perfect for warmer climates or for use around younger children.
• RainbowMist Cool & Warm Ultrasonic Humidifier – A versatile dual-function unit offering both cool and warm mist options, with added features like aromatherapy and colour-changing lights to suit every room and mood.

Our humidifiers are a popular choice for families looking to enhance their indoor comfort throughout the colder months.

Other Winter Wellness Essentials

Alongside humidifiers, these home essentials may help you stay prepared this season:

• Digital Thermometers – Easy-to-use tools for monitoring temperature when someone is unwell.
• Multifunction Touch-Free Thermometers – A hygienic and quick way to check temperatures, especially for little ones or the elderly.
• Replacement Filters – Keep your humidifier performing at its best.

Please note: MedeScan products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. For any health concerns, please consult a healthcare professional.

Stay Ahead of the Cold

As flu and RSV numbers continue to rise across Australia, ensuring your home environment is prepared can make a big difference to how you or your loved ones feel during recovery. From easing congestion to supporting better rest, a humidifier could be a simple yet effective addition to your winter routine.

Explore the full range of Humidifiers and get your home winter-ready today.