It’s coming close to the end of the quarter, which means we all get to go home for the holidays soon! It also means bringing back new germs when returning to school in the winter. Between the cold winter season and everyone else getting sick, here’s what you should do to avoid germs and prevent catching the infamous Poly Plague.
1) GET SLEEP!
Seriously. I know course loads aren’t nearly as demanding the first few weeks of the quarter, and that makes you think you can stay up all hours of the night, but don’t. Getting a solid amount of sleep is key in keeping yourself healthy on campus.
2) Be a clean gym rat.
Keeping active is a great way to avoid getting sick, but don’t forget about those nasty germs left behind from previous workouts on the machines at the gym. Wipe that elliptical down, guys.
3) Sanitizer is your new right hand man.
Keep your hands as germ-free as possible. On top of washing your hands, keep some hand sanitizer at the ready; it’s about to be your new best friend.
4) Tea!
Tea is a go-to for me, whether or not it really helps, it always feels cozy and warm, which is enough to make me feel like it’s a good precaution in not getting sick.
5) Sharing is not caring.
At least for the first few weeks, just avoid all the germs that you possibly can. Don’t share water bottles, mugs or saliva. That’s right, get off tinder, avoid your SO and save those kisses until everyone’s healthy again.
6) Stay hydrated.
Your body needs water. Keep that H2O flowing. It’s good for you.
7) Don’t be afraid to cuddle up with some Nyquil and Netflix if you’re not feeling up for a night out
I know the FOMO can be real, but it’s not worth making yourself feel worse or getting other people sick by going out. Save it for next weekend. Turn on some Christmas classics and brew that tea.
If you’ve experienced the Poly Plague, you know that it spreads like Ebola. So drink your tea, get that eight hours of sleep and cut any plague-ridden friends out of your life until they recuperate. Happy finals, Mustangs!