Unfortunately, the student population here at Roanoke College seems to be dropping like flies as we enter the peak of cold and flu season. I, along with pretty much the entirety of my friend group, was bedridden for most of last week due to contracting the flu. Thankfully, I’m mostly recovered now! There are a few very important things you can do to stay healthy during this time of sickness and uncertainty, so here are my top tips to avoid the plague!
- Wear a mask. I know, it sucks, but it’s a tried-and-true way to limit the spread of infection, even if you aren’t sick! There are masks available at Student Health Services, just inside the door.
- Wash your hands several times a day. This probably sounds like common sense, but even just washing them one or two more times a day than usual may be the difference between sickness and health!
- Stay home if you feel sick. Personally, I try to attend class unless I physically cannot. However, I have to strongly advise against that with so many different viruses and other pathogens circulating campus right now. Most classes have at least a couple of excused absences built in for a reason – use them! If your symptoms persist for more than a couple days, or worsen significantly, consider scheduling an appointment with Health Services!
If someone you’re close with is sick, I suggest offering to pick up food from one of the dining options for them to minimize the spread of infection! Even a contactless delivery of the food outside their room door will drastically decrease the chance of contact… not to mention the kindness of allowing them to focus on recovery! My best friend brought me several meals while I was recovering, and I am incredibly grateful to him for that. I hope that all of you stay as safe and healthy as possible in the coming weeks!
Ren Monin
Staff Reporter
