Fall and winter are my favorite seasons. I love the cold, the leaves, the snow, and soooo much more! That being said, the colder seasons do present a daunting challenge: the flu. The flu, for lack of better term, sucks to have. Being bedridden with the sniffles, a raging migraine, and puking all the time, isn’t on my top ten for experiences personally. So, as the seasons, and sickness approaches, it’s time to prepare yourself with knowledge of what to do when you’re not feeling great.

student looking at products in the pharmacy — Student Health Center Pharmacy

1. Preventative Measures

First thing is first, trying not to get sick in the first place. The Student Health Center does provide flu shots, as do most Walgreens, CVS, and Walmart stores. Flu shots are free to students on campus on the fallowing days with their respective locations:

Nov. 10 — 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Morris Library.
Nov. 18 — 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Lentz Dining Hall.
Dec. 2 — 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Recreation Center Alumni Lounge.

You should also keep up with your hygiene. I understand seasonal depression can make it difficult, but brushing your teeth once a day even without toothpaste is better than not brushing at all. Take the little victories! You should also try keeping your distance from people, wear a mask if your immune system is susceptible, and this is NOT the time of year to be drinking after your friends

2. When You Are Sick

A student talks with Dr. Andrew Riffey in the Student Health Center clinic at the Student Health Center. — Student speaks with Dr. in the Student Health Center Clinic

Now, just because you take these measures doesn’t mean you won’t get sick. If you get sick, there are recommended measures to take. First, you should quarantine with minimal contact with others to avoid spreading the sickness. Check your temperature regularly to keep track, go to the doctor if you need to, drink plenty of water, try eating something light if you feel up to it, and take medicine as recommended. Check the syllabus for your class if necessary, ask a classmate for notes, and email your professors that you can’t come in because you’re sick.

3. Fun and Safe Things To Do During Flu Season

Now, despite the illness, the season isn’t all doom and gloom. There is still fun to have during the season! You can play video games, curl up with a good book, and heck, you could learn a whole new skill this season!

Fall and winter are great seasons, and when you look past all the flu stuff, there’s so much good in them. Being sick is no fun, but I hope some of this helped. Stay safe during these seasons!