Student spotlight: The facts about freshers’ flu

Freshers’ Week is traditionally a time for new students to let loose before the academic year begins. It’s a time to explore new surroundings, meet new people and enjoy the new-found freedom that comes with leaving home. But as many students soon find out, it’s all fun and games until you’re floored by freshers’ flu!

Freshers’ flu – myth or reality?

Freshers flu is a very real and very common complaint, but the truth is it isn’t actually a strain of the flu at all. Instead, it is caused by a combination of factors such as:

• Socialising: Mingling with new people who may be carrying viruses you’re not immune to.
• Shared spaces: Spending time in environments such as pubs, night clubs, halls of residents and classrooms where viruses can spread easily.
• Lack of sleep: Late night partying can impact your energy levels and your immunity.
• Too much alcohol: The student drink promo’s might be tempting, but consuming more than the recommended 14 units per week can weaken your defences against viruses.
• Poor diet: Too many takeaways and junk food “hangover cures” and not enough fresh fruit and vegetables can leave you more susceptible to feeling rundown.
• Stress: Leaving home for the first time can be a big deal, especially if you’re moving miles away from friends and family, and the impact of stress on the immune system is well documented.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of freshers’ flu are very similar to a bad cold and include things such as:

• Shivering
• High temperature
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Runny or blocked nose
• Headache
• Fatigue

How can it be treated?

Freshers’ flu usually lasts up to two week, during which time it’s best to rest as much possible. Give the late-night parties a swerve and instead focus on getting good quality sleep. Stay hydrated with plenty of water, and ensure your diet contains lots of healthy, fresh ingredients so your body can fight the infection. If your symptoms do not improve after two weeks, you should make an appointment to see a GP.

Don’t pass it on

It is important to practise good hygiene to limit the spread of freshers’ flu to others. Everyday suggestions include:

• Wash your hands thoroughly
• Bin any tissues after coughing and sneezing into them
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels
• Wipe down surfaces such as your desk and kitchen worktops regularly to help keep germs at bay

Speak to a GP if you’re worried about your health

Whether you have questions about freshers’ flu, or you’re keen to get advice about staying healthy throughout student life, you can book an appointment at YourGP. You don’t need to be registered with us to be seen by one of our doctors, and we have short notice appointments readily available at our two Edinburgh practices. Use our simple online booking system, email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.