The Handy Guide to Freshers Flu

Are you heading to university soon, excited about your newfound freedom and independence? Amid all the excitement to begin living a carefree life, you may have forgotten that freshers' flu is prevalent among students.

We are here to ensure that your once-in-a-lifetime university experience remains untarnished by the unwelcome arrival of the infamous freshers' flu!

In this guide, we will discuss all things fresher flu in the hope that it will equip you with the right tools to start living your best life while trying to avoid catching the dreaded flu.

What is Freshers Flu?
How to Avoid Freshers' Flu
What Should I Do if I Catch Freshers’ Flu?
Freshers Flu Survival FAQs
Don't Let Freshers’ Flu Overshadow Your Experience

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What is Freshers Flu?

Every university student's priority is freshers' week, a time synonymous with forging initial friendships and creating core memories. However, one aspect that students should not overlook is the notorious freshers' flu.

Freshers' flu covers the wave of illnesses that tend to strike down most students during their first few weeks at university.

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What are Freshers' Flu Symptoms?

Fortunately, despite its name, freshers' flu shares more similarities with a cold than the actual flu. The following symptoms could indicate that you are developing freshers’ flu:

High temperature
Sore throat
Tiredness
Cough
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Runny nose

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How Long Does Freshers' Flu Last?

Do not fear; your symptoms should ease up within a week. If your freshers' flu symptoms last longer than a week or increase in severity, you should take a doctor's trip.

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How to Avoid Freshers' Flu

Although this is easier said than done, below are some ways you can try to avoid catching the flu:

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Hydration is Key

Drinking plenty of water is one of the best ways to maintain health and well-being. Staying hydrated prepares your body to tackle any pesky germs.

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Rest

It is far too easy during freshers' week to overlook the importance of sleep. Lack of sleep can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to freshers' flu. The optimal amount of sleep is 7 to 8 hours each night for most adults, so put your pride aside and spend a night catching up on rest.

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Hygiene Matters

Hands play a huge role in the passing of germs. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and carry hand sanitiser. Avoid touching your face, as germs can enter your body through your mouth and nose.

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Diet

We know that cooking your food at university is far less appealing than visiting one of the many fast-food restaurants that tend to surround student accommodation. However, eating fruit and vegetables is essential in providing our bodies with the vitamins to fight infections.

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What Should I Do If I Catch Freshers' Flu?

You may have tried hard to avoid catching the dreaded flu, but unless you have spent your freshers week cooped up inside, you won't have been able to dodge it.

Don't panic; with plenty of rest, nutritious meals, and litres of water, your FOMO (fear of missing out) should only last a week. You will be back mingling with all your new friends in no time.

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Freshers Flu Survival FAQ's

Can I get fresher flu more than once?

When you are mixing with many new people, you are open to many more new germs. It is possible to

catch the flu more than once, but preventative measures can help mitigate the symptoms if you do catch it.

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How do you get rid of freshers' flu fast?

The best thing you can do once you feel your freshers' flu symptoms brewing is to spend a night relaxing, drinking lots of water, taking vitamins, and, most importantly, getting a full night's sleep!

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Should I go to my uni class with freshers flu?

In the case that you are feeling unwell with freshers’ flu, you should stay away from others to prevent spreading any germs and prioritise getting better.

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Don't Let Freshers' Flu Overshadow Your Experience

Don't let the idea of freshers' flu put you off enjoying all the fun and games that freshers' week offers! Make the most of your university experience by getting to know lots of new people while being mindful of your overall health and keeping an eye out for those pesky freshers' flu symptoms!

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