While the turning of leaves and the brisk winds flow throughout campus, bringing the beginning of autumn, it also marks the beginning of the long-dreaded flu season.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that affects many during the changing of seasons.
Staying healthy during this time of year is especially important with classes ramping up, midterms and the end of the semester approaching.
Some of the best ways to avoid getting sick are to prioritize sleep, eating right and practicing proper hygiene.
While these are important factors, many doctors and health agencies, including the University of Northern Iowa Student Health Clinic Director, Sarah Behrends, believe that the most important step to take during this time of year is to get a flu shot.
The ideal time to get a flu shot is between the months of September and October, as this is when the beginning of flu season occurs.
Getting the shot early on is important, then you are well prepared for the peak flu season months — December through February — which is where most tend to fall ill to influenza.
Behrends also recommends that students, faculty and staff be vaccinated by the end of October for the most optimal results (unless directed otherwise by your healthcare provider).
For many students on campus, the cost and accessibility factors of getting to a doctor’s office can be tricky. The Student Health Center is available for all students, and anyone with a UNI ID can make an appointment with the Student Health Center.Find more information about appointments at https://wellbeing.uni.edu/student-health.
UNI hosts Flu Vaccine Clinics in the fall, which are available to all staff and students. On Thursday, Oct. 16, from 12:20 p.m. until 3 p.m., the Schindler Education Center will have a clinic for those in need of a flu shot. Taking advantage of these clinics and services is a great way to not only stay healthy, but also save money along the way.
After getting a flu shot, it is not guaranteed that you will not get the flu. If you are fighting off an illness and believe that it could be the flu, it can be beneficial to purchase a test to make sure you keep your roommates, peers and friends safe while you battle off the infection.
Also, receiving a diagnosis of the flu can be helpful if you need to take time off from school or work to recover. Doctor’s notes are always accepted by professors.
While getting a flu shot is very important, students need to emphasize the importance of listening to our bodies.
As busy college students, many of us are so focused on the task at hand. Between classes, social activities and student organizations, it can be easy for us to forget to take care of ourselves.
Simple day-to-day activities like taking time to read, journaling, exercising and eating healthy can all be underlying factors that can keep a student from falling ill. Taking vitamins can also help keep students healthy during sick seasons.
While you are sipping on your apple cider in between classes, or cramming for your next test, be sure to be mindful of how you are treating yourself during this time of year and take the steps you can to be sure you stay as healthy as possible this semester.
Contact the UNI Student Health Clinic at 319-273-2009 to schedule an appointment, if flu shot clinic times do not work for your schedule. Flu shots are free for those who are eligible. Check with your healthcare provider to see if your flu shot is covered.
