Freshers’ Flu. Let’s face it, there’s no real avoiding it.
With the novelty and excitement of Freshers’ Week, it’s not uncommon for many students to be plagued with Freshers’ Flu at least once during their university experience. When you have thousands of students flocking to the same location to drink incessantly, eat lots of junk food, barely sleep and become well acquainted with one another – it’s inevitable.
Contrary to popular belief, Freshers’ Flu isn’t actually a type of flu – it’s more like a really, really bad cold – but it still manages to make you look and feel like utter poop. And if you think you have it, you probably have it – the whole ‘feeling like death’ thing is kinda hard to ignore. Be on the look out for symptoms such as fever, shivering, sneezing, headaches, a cough and general groggyness.
Though fear not – catching Freshers’ Flu isn’t actually the end of the world (as much as it may feel like it) and you shouldn’t consider hiding away in your room, missing out on all Freshers’ Week activities, just to avoid it. As we said before, it’s inevitable. So here’s a few things you should know before it strikes.
1. H2O is your best friend.
Seriously. Staying well hydrated at all times is the key to beating Freshers’ Flu and staying healthy. As well as preventing a hangover the morning after the night before, drinking water regularly helps to remove toxins from your body and allows your cells to take in nutrients.
2. An apple a day really does keep the doctor away.
As a Fresher, it can be all too tempting to live off pizza, chocolate, ready meals and takeaways. However, vitamins play a huge part in keeping your body functioning well, from dealing with fatigue to boosting your immune system. So don’t completely neglect your fruit and vegetables – they’ll work a ton of wonders for your health in comparison to just scoffing multi-vitamins.
3. Stock up on paracetamol.
Although they should be taken in moderation and shouldn’t be completely relied upon, paracetamol will help to make the symptoms of Freshers’ Flu a little more bearable. It’ll lower your temperature and help to make you feel a little bit more human.
4. Breaking a sweat is good for you.
It might seem like the last thing you want to do when you’re feeling like utter trash, but believe it or not exercise is one of the best ways to make your body stronger when experiencing Freshers’ Flu symptoms. Even doing some gentle exercise gives your immune system a much needed boost.
5. Sleep is glorious.
With Freshers’ Week comes an abundance of partying, socialising, and not a whole lot of sleep. That’s just a given when there are so many exciting activities going on – you don’t want to be the one to miss out. But every now and again, it’s worth catching up on your sleep. Lack of sleep weakens your immune system and heightens the symptoms of Freshers’ Flu. So if you’re feeling burnt out, climb into bed and have a duvet day.
6. Fresh air is necessary.
Following on from the previous point – while catching up on sleep is great, try not to stay cooped up on your own filth for too long. Head outside, breathe in some fresh air and you’ll soon discover that it’ll do you the world of good.
7. Hygiene is important.
It’s really a no-brainer, but being savvy about your hygiene will go a long way in the fight against Freshers’ Flu. Freshers’ Week and student halls are a breeding ground for germs, so be sure to wash your hands often and keep your room clean to lessen your chances of picking up something nasty.
8. Mum knows best.
For most of us, when we fall ill, the only thing we want is to be in our own beds with our mum there to care for us. Living away from home (likely for the very first time) makes falling ill an extremely difficult and highly emotional time. So if all else fails, give your mum a call. She knows best, and will do everything to provide the best remedies and more sympathy than you could ever wish for.
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