Getting sick feels almost inevitable on campus. But there are ways to dodge the worst of it. As midterms begin this week – and there’s always papers and projects due – it’s important to practice self-care and personal hygiene. Campus Care and Carolina have both advice and resources for you to keep yourself and your friends well this year.
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!
- Get your vaccines. The flu vax is available during visits to Campus Care and pop up flu clinics are coming soon.
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 Care – 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 Pharmacies, along with three over-the-counter health vending machines located in the Carolina Union, Rams Head Rec, and Gillings School of Public Health.
- CAPS – mental health supports your immune system too. Initial drop-in visits 9-12, 1-4 Mon-Fri. Or call 24/7 919-966-3658.
- Campus Recreation – Fun ways and free facilities to move your body.
You can’t avoid every bug on campus, but a mix of good habits and leaning on Carolina’s resources means much higher odds of staying healthy. Stay Healthy, Heels!