Freshers’ Flu: What it is and how to protect yourself

There are so many exciting things to look forward to when you start university. But while you’re out enjoying yourself and meeting new people, one of the things you might not thinking about is coming down with Freshers’ Flu.  

While it sounds like just another sore throat or a common cold, coming down with a case of Fresher’s Flu can leave you feeling rotten for a week or two.  

So, what is Freshers’ Flu and how do you get it? We break down the key signs to look out for and how you can look after yourself if you do come down with it.  

What is Fresher’s Flu? 

There are germs everywhere, so when you gather lots of people into one area, you increase the chances of germs spreading. This is the case with Freshers’ Flu.  

It’s not actually the flu, but it is a nickname given to a mix of symptoms that students tend to come down with during their first few weeks at university. It spreads from students sharing communal spaces and spending lots of time with each other both in and outside of lectures.  

It only tends to last for a week or two, and over time you will build immunity towards it.  

Freshers’ Flu Symptoms 

The common symptoms of Freshers’ flu include: 

• Runny or blocked nose 

• Sore throat 

• Fatigue and general tiredness 

• Headache or fever 

• Nausea 

While you might feel unwell, there’s nothing to worry about. However, because the symptoms can be similar to other illnesses such as the Flu or Covid-19 it can be hard to know the difference. 

In the first instance, if you are feeling unwell, you should avoid contact with people and get some rest. If you feel like you might have Covid-19 or the Flu, you get advice by calling NHS 111 or speak to your local pharmacy.  

How Can You Protect Yourself from Getting Freshers’ Flu? 

As with any common cold or virus, it can be difficult to avoid coming into contact with those who have it, especially if you’re around people most of the time.  

However, there are things you can do to give yourself the best chances of staying healthy and avoiding Freshers’ Flu. 

1.  Practice good hygiene 

It sounds simple, but washing your hands regularly is the best way to stop the spread of germs. If you are outside or in communal spaces, always carry some hand sanitiser with you.  

2. Get a good night’s sleep 

You might think you can survive on only a couple of hours sleep so you don’t miss out on all the action, but a lack of proper sleep can weaken your immune system and make you more likely to pick up an illness.  

You need to get at least 6-8 hours sleep each night so you can fully re-charge your batteries and feel ready for the day ahead.  

3. Eating well 

Between nights out and the temptation of local fast-food places, it can be easy to fall into the habit of only eating junk food. This is not only bad on the waistline, but it can also make you more likely to pick up a bug and less likely to fight off infections.  

Try eating your five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. If you struggle with this, at least swap out some of the takeaways for a healthy meal option.  

4. Stay hydrated  

This means drinking less alcohol and having more water instead. Probably not the advice that every fresher wants to hear, but it’s for good reason.  

Drinking plenty of water not only helps you feel better when you’re feel unwell, but it also keeps your body and skin healthy, too. 

 If you choose to drink on a night out, try alternating alcoholic drinks with some water or a soft drink. This will lessen your chances of getting a hangover and stops you from becoming dehydrated.  

How can you treat Freshers’ Flu? 

There is no magical cure unfortunately! But there are things you can do to make yourself feel better and fight it off faster: 

• Give your body time to rest by getting plenty of sleep 

• Take paracetamol to reduce your fever and tackle headaches 

• Speak to a pharmacist about over the counter cold and flu medications 

• Drinks lots of water  

• Step up your personal hygiene 

Seek medical advice 

If your symptoms don’t start to improve after 7 days, or you start to feel worse and develop new symptoms, contact your local doctor (GP) to book an appointment.