Everyone wants to avoid getting sick and convinces themselves that it will not be them this year, but we all have to face it. Being on a college campus it is almost impossible to not catch something that is going around. Whether it is the flu or a cold. There are around 6,000 students and faculty on this campus. The ones that are staying on campus and living there are spreading their germs more easily than the people who live off campus. But the students who are commuters are bringing germs in that are outside the school. The chances of you escaping some kind of sickness are slim. We all sit at the same desks, grab the same door handles, and breathe the same air. Senior, Caitlin Adreasan, says “It seems like there is always someone fighting off a cough or runny nose. Illnesses cycles though campus constantly, and it is hard to protect yourself when you share close quarters with a roommate.”

There is a severe strain of the flu traveling across the United States, and especially New Hampshire. Causing more hospitalizations and even deaths. As of this week in New Hampshire, twenty-four people have died from the flu just this year. The age range 5 to 24 has the highest rate of having the flu. But every death from the flu in New Hampshire has been adults thus far. Very young people, and adults have more chances of life threatening symptoms due to weak immune systems. Especially ones with compromised immune systems. It is important to take care of yourself and get help if you need it. The CDC recommends getting the flu shot ASAP if you have not already gotten it. Reports say that this year’s flu shot is not as effective but people should still be getting it. To help prevent it you should wash your hands frequently, and even keep hand sanitizer on you, especially after sitting at a desk. You do not know who sat there before you. The CDC even recommends disinfecting desks before you sit in them, and items around your living space.

If you happen to get the flu you should drink lots of fluids to ensure you are keeping yourself hydrated, and getting the amount of electrolytes you need. You should be taking medicine to help get rid of the flu faster and if symptoms get worse you should seek medical attention. The flu this season is not one to mess with. Keep yourself safe and everyone around you.