Living Strong: How to Prevent (and Treat) Common Campus Sickness

It seems like every year a new strain of a relatively common illness emerges, capturing media attention and sending Americans to the grocery store in droves for things like antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer. Unbeknownst to many�and fortunately for the millions of college students who frequent crowded spaces every day�adopting a few simple habits can ensure good health throughout the year.

What's Out There

The following are the most common communicable illnesses in the United States�termed so since they can be passed through the air via coughs and sneezes, through the exchange of bodily fluids, and by touching contaminated objects (such as drinking fountains):

Cold/respiratory infection � Marked by a runny nose, coughing, sneezing, and overall body ache, the common cold is a viral infection that does not respond to antibiotic medication. Its symptoms, however, can and should be treated with over-the-counter drugs as a neglected cold can lead to more serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia. (Read about student health insurance.)
Influenza � Symptoms of this unpleasant condition�more commonly known as �the flu��include muscle ache/fatigue, fever, vomiting, sore throat, and cough. The flu can be prevented with a vaccine or treated using prescription antiviral medication. The disease can worsen and be potentially fatal if untreated, however, so see a doctor at the onset of symptoms.
Strep throat � This highly contagious bacterial disease often triggers fever and extreme soreness and swelling of the throat and neck. Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics to treat strep throat, but as always, early consultation is very important.
Meningitis � Many U.S. schools require students to get a meningitis vaccine before the start of classes, especially if they will be living in a residence hall. This extremely contagious infection can be either viral or bacterial and causes the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord to become inflamed.
Mono � Its playful nickname (the �kissing disease�) notwithstanding, mononucleosis is a very serious illness that is transmitted through saliva and mucous. Those affected often experience extreme tiredness as well as swollen glands and fever. An unfortunate characteristic of mono is that it cannot be treated with traditional medications; however, many patients are non-contagious and fully mobile during several stages of the illness.

The Best Defense...

Even the healthiest students are prone to the occasional cold or stomach virus, but if you're getting sick more than once or twice a year, it might be time to start adhering to these good health basics:

Sleep. Don't let your busy class or social schedule keep you from getting the seven to nine hours per night recommended for college-age students.
Eat. When added to a balanced diet, certain foods�such as beef, yogurt, and mushrooms�are believed to boost your body's ability to fight sickness. Taking a multivitamin can also strengthen your immunity.
Relax. Stress can wreak havoc on a student's body, so be careful to squeeze in a few minutes each day for enjoyment and rest.
Exercise. It's no secret that disease preys on weak, inactive bodies. But exercise doesn't have to involve a gym or treadmill if that's not your thing�vigorous walking or tossing a Frisbee are great ways to stay active.
Clean. Practicing good hygiene helps to keep sickness at bay, but it shouldn't stop at grooming oneself. Keeping your surroundings and personal effects germ-free can also help stop the spread of communicable diseases.

by Hannah Roberts, staff writer

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