How to stay healthy during cold and flu season
As classes, events and campus activities pick up, so can colds, flu and other respiratory illnesses. Living with roommates, sitting in full classrooms and spending time in shared spaces can make it easier for illnesses to spread.Ìý
The good news? A few simple habits can help lower your chances of getting sick or passing an illness to someone else. Start with these cold and flu season tips.Ìý
ÌýÌýGet your flu shotÌý
One of the best ways to protect yourself from the flu is to get your annual flu shot. The flu vaccine can lower your risk of getting the flu and may reduce the severity of illness if you do get sick.Ìý
ÃÛÌÒ´«Ã½Æƽâ°æÏÂÔØ students can get a free flu shot starting Sept. 14 at Wardenburg, and starting Sept. 17 at various locations on campus. Flu shots are available by appointment only. Find a flu shot clinic on campus and schedule your appointment through the .Ìý
Getting vaccinated early in the season can help protect you before flu activity increases—and may mean fewer sick days getting in the way of classes, work, plans and time with friends.Ìý
ÌýÌýHelp stop germs from spreadingÌý
Respiratory illnesses can spread quickly in classrooms, residence halls, apartments and other shared spaces. Practicing a few everyday hygiene habits can help protect you and the people around you.Ìý
ÌýÌýWash your hands regularly. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the restroom, coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. If soap and water aren't available, use hand sanitizer.Ìý
ÌýÌýCover coughs and sneezes. Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow instead of your hands, and wash or sanitize your hands afterward.Ìý
ÌýÌýDon't share personal items. Avoid sharing drinks, utensils, lip balm and other items that come into contact with your mouth or face.Ìý
ÌýÌýClean frequently touched surfaces. Regularly clean shared surfaces in your room or apartment, especially when someone is sick.Ìý
ÌýÌýConsider wearing a mask. A well-fitting mask can provide additional protection against respiratory illnesses, especially in crowded indoor spaces. If you’re sick or recovering and need to be around others, wearing a well-fitting mask can also help reduce the chance of spreading illness.Ìý
ÌýÌýGive people space when you're sick. If you're not feeling well, skip the study group, party or packed bus when you can. Taking time to recover can also help keep your friends, roommates and classmates from getting sick.Ìý
ÌýÌýKnow what to do if you get sickÌý
Even when you take precautions, getting sick happens. If you're feeling under the weather, give yourself time to rest and take steps to avoid spreading illness to others.Ìý
Stay home and away from others when you're sick when possible, and take extra precautions if you need to be around other people. Pay attention to your symptoms and seek medical care when you need it.Ìý
ÌýÌýTake care of the basicsÌý
Vaccination and habits that reduce the spread of germs are especially important during cold and flu season. Taking care of your overall health can also help you feel your best and support your recovery if you do get sick.Ìý
ÌýÌýPrioritize sleep. College schedules can get hectic, but aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night when you can. Keeping a relatively consistent sleep and wake time can also help you get the rest you need.Ìý
ÌýÌýEat regularly and stay hydrated. Regular meals and snacks can help keep your energy up throughout busy days. Carry a refillable water bottle so it's easy to stay hydrated between classes and activities.Ìý
ÌýÌýKeep moving. Walk across campus, hit The Rec or find another activity you enjoy. Regular movement can support your overall health and well-being.Ìý
ÌýÌýMake time to recharge. Stress can make it harder to keep up with routines like sleeping, eating and taking care of yourself. Build in time to relax, connect with friends and take breaks when you need them.Ìý
ÌýÌýMake a plan for cold and flu seasonÌý
You don't have to overhaul your routine to help protect yourself this season. Get your flu shot, wash your hands, cover coughs and sneezes and stay away from others when you're sick.Ìý
A few small actions can help you miss fewer classes and plans—and help keep your roommates, friends and fellow Buffs healthy, too.Ìý