Lets face it, the last thing we need during midterm week is a scratchy throat, a runny nose, and a fatigued body. But with temperatures dropping, cold and flu viruses are circulating through Marquette’s campus and seeking vulnerable hosts.

According to MedicineNet.com, on average an adult will suffer from two to four colds per year, but as students we can expect double that amount. Living on campus with over 8,000 students increases our exposure to harmful germs, and the added stress from schoolwork and a lack of sleep from the weekend makes our bodies weak and susceptible to viruses.

So what can we do to avoid this all too common fall cold?

1. Bundle up: 50 degrees does not qualify you to wear shorts and a tank top. If you want to stay fashionable, layer your clothing so it is harder for heart to escape your body.
2. Be smart at the gym: You know those signs that say “please clean equipment before and after each use?” well they are there for a reason. Keep in mind that people carry viruses they may already be immune to, but your body is not. Take that extra step to make sure every handle, button, and weight you pick up is germ free.
3. Wash your hands: this may be common sense to some of you, but make it a point to wash your hands anytime you are in public. Think of how many people touched the pen at the grocery store you used to sign your name. Gross, right?
4. Manage Stress. The more worked-up you are the more fatigued the body gets, which will lower immunity. Make sure you clear your mind and get a minimum of 7 hours of sleep a night.
5. Eat Clean: Another obvious one. Bad food = bad health. Make sure you are getting your daily doses of Vitamins D, C, and B.
6. Don’t share drinks: One of your friends may tell you they’re not sick, even though they actually are because they want to try the latest concoction you’ve created. Don’t fall for it. Have everyone bring their own cup/shot glass and don’t give in. You’ll be sorry if you do.
7. Stock up on some R&R: I know staying in on a Friday or Saturday night may seem like a sin, but your body will thank you for it. Snuggle up in bed and stock up on some Netflix movies. It’s about time you finally treat yourself to a viewing of The Hunger Games.