How to beat the flu

It is no surprise that flu season is upon us, and living in tight quarters makes it an undesirable fate for college students. I think most of Hope’s campus would agree that we do not want an outbreak like that of 2008. A norovirus took over campus, keeping hundreds bedridden and miserable.

In an effort to avoid that chaos, here are some simple steps for you to be aware and prepared before the flu comes knocking on your door:

1. Get the flu shot. While this decision is heavily debated, if you are a somewhat healthy person, it is safest to get the flu shot sooner rather than later.
2. Avoid close contact with anyone, especially if they are sick. Unless you want the flu, try to not be in the same room as someone who has it. (If your roommate has it, have a sleepover somewhere else)
3. Cover your mouth and nose. As simple as it sounds, covering your sneezes and coughs will keep your germs from spraying across the room and onto unsuspecting victims.
4. Clean your hands. Do not be that person who forgets to wash their hands after they go to the bathroom. No one likes that person. If you always wash your hands and think you have nothing to worry about, take that extra step of caution and avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

For those of you who have already caught the flu, maybe you are looking for something to lessen the misery:

1. Rest! We all know there are things to be done, people to see, and Netflix shows to be binge-watched. However, if you are trying to nip your illness in the bud, it would be best if you get some sleep. Sleep is so crucial for your body to restart and re-energize.
2. As far as food goes, stick with light soups and broths. Nothing feels better than a warm bowl of soup when you feel absolutely terrible. The dining halls have soup every day, or you can get your friend to make a Meijer run.
3. Drink water! You have no idea how much you are helping your body by drinking water.
4. Do us all a favor and stay home. People feel sorry for you; they really do. But if you stay in your bed, they will like you much more.

Stay healthy!