Dorms, libraries, dining halls, packed classrooms—campus is full of people. And people are some of the best vectors of illness. Getting sick feels almost inevitable on campus. But there are ways to dodge the worst of it. As midterms ramp up, papers and projects are due, it’s important to practice self-care and personal hygiene.
Get back to basics
- Wash your hands. Yes, it’s simple. But it really helps. Wash before eating and after touching things where germs likely exist (doorknobs, desks, and your phone).
- Don’t share items that pass germs. Avoid your friend’s drink. Have your own hand towel in a bathroom you share with a roommate – or wash them regularly.
- Wipe it down. Laptop keyboards, phone screens, and gym equipment are all germ hotspots.
- Cover your cough or sneeze. Cough into your elbow, not into the air or your roommate’s face.
Boost your immune system
- Sleep – for real. Late night studying or TikTok binges lower your defenses. Aim for 7–8 hours every night. Stretch goal? Set regular wake and sleep times – including weekends, if possible.
- Eat an array of foods. Putting diverse foods in your body means more nutrients to fight off colds.
- Hydrate. Make water your drink of choice, especially during flu season.
- Move your body. Even short walks help keep your system strong. Dance breaks count too!
When you – or the people around you – get sick
- Don’t tough it out. Missing class when you’re contagious isn’t weak, it’s responsible. Message your profs to let them know in advance.
- Mask up. If you’ve got symptoms, masking helps protect your friends and classmates.
- Clean your space. Disinfect door handles, remotes, and anything your roommate touches.
Use your Carolina resources 🐏💙
- Campus Health – Learn how to self-manage a cold or stomach bug, decide when you need medical care, and get (free!) medical care or immunizations (like your flu shot).
- Pharmacy – Prescription and over-the-counter meds available in Student Stores and Campus Health, along with three over-the-counter health vending machines located in the Carolina Union, Rams Head Rec, and Gillings School of Public Health.
- CAPS – stress care = immune care. Initial visits 9-12, 1-4 Mon-Fri. Or call 24/7 919-966-3658.
- Campus Rec – Fun ways and free facilities to move your body.
Bottom line: You can’t avoid every bug on campus, but a mix of good habits and using Carolina’s resources means much higher odds of staying healthy. Stay well, Heels!