Freshers' flu

Freshers' Flu is a term commonly used to describe a collection of illnesses that students are likely to catch during the first few weeks at a university. This is due to the sudden mingling of large groups of people, many of whom have moved from far away and brought various different germs with them.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Freshers' Flu are similar to those of a common cold or flu, and can include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Runny nose

Causes

Freshers' Flu is not caused by a single virus or bacteria, but is instead a result of exposure to a variety of different germs. These can be spread through:

• Close contact with other people
• Sharing drinks or food
• Touching contaminated surfaces

Prevention

While it is not always possible to prevent Freshers' Flu, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk, such as:

• Regular hand washing
• Avoiding close contact with people who are ill
• Not sharing drinks or food
• Getting enough sleep
• Eating a healthy diet
• Regular exercise

Treatment

Treatment for Freshers' Flu is usually supportive, and can include:

• Rest
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Over-the-counter medication to relieve symptoms
• If symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

See Also

• Common cold
• Influenza
• Infectious mononucleosis