Many health officials are predicting that the 2012/2013 flu season could be one of the worst flu seasons ever. On January 10, the flu was declared an epidemic. Every year, a quarter of the American population gets the flu, and more than 36,000 Americans die as a result of that sickness. Widespread flu reached such a bad state that the city of Boston had to declare a health emergency in the second week of January this year. Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas have also reported high levels of flu activity; nineteen other states have reported similar intense flu activities. Health officials are strongly urging people to get their flu shots, especially children.

One place where the flu is easily spread around is at a school. With everyone touching the same door handles and computer keyboards, it’s very easy for the virus to spread. ODA is making an effort to increase the sanitization on campus, but students can also take action and prevent themselves from catching the flu. Here are some ways to contribute:

1. Develop good hand-washing techniques, and wash your hands often!

2. Go to your local Walgreens or CVS to get your flu shot, if you already haven’t.

3. Ask your doctor if you are able to take vitamin C, it can boost your immune system.

4. Avoid stress, which weakens your immune system and makes you more vulnerable to the flu.

5. If you are not feeling your best, then give yourself a day or two so you can rest up.

One of the most important things to do to avoid catching the flu is to wash your hands! You come into contact with everything on this campus, like doorknobs and computer keyboards; those are the most infected surfaces since everyone’s hands are constantly touching them. In addition to the custodians making an effort to keep the campus clean, Ms. Mandel is also making the effort. Since many students touch everything in the library, germs can be spread around easily. Ms. Mandel regularly goes around with Lysol disinfectant wipes and cleans all the surfaces she thinks are the most germ-ridden.

Sources: About.com: Avoid the Flu