As the semester winds down, many students simply can't suppress the utter joy in knowing that they have nearly an entire month before returning to the drudgery of yet another semester of demanding instructors, term papers and many late nights studying for that lousy World Civ. exam.
If you'd like to spend your winter break relaxing, then perhaps it's time to refresh yourself with some winter health tips to stay healthy this cold and flu season.
When it comes to combating illness, the best thing to do is introduce preventative health measures into daily routine according to Dr. Frank Carnevale, director of Student Health Services.
"Students can do a lot to protect themselves from getting ill if they follow some simple guidelines," he said.
Carnevale recommends that students wash their hands regularly with soap and water and use such products as Purell Hand Sanitizer when hand washing is not an option. A flu shot is also a great preventative measure.
While it is always advisable to cover your mouth when you cough, Carnevale claims that this practice is not foolproof in preventing others from catching your cold.
"As children, we're taught to cough into our hand," Carnevale said, "but it's better to cough into your sleeve at the inside of your elbow."
Other suggestions to stay healthy include staying home when sick, and avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth, as germs on your hands easily enter the body when rubbing an eye or picking a nose. Daily routines of eight hours of sleep and good eating habits can also prevent illness.
Students can visit the Health Services Web site at wellness.buffalo.edu for information on wellness services offered to students, such as chiropractic care and stress management.
Health Services is hosting several flu shot clinics free to all UB students throughout this week. Faculty and staff may also receive a flu shot for $20.
The remaining clinics will be held Wednesday from noon to 3 p.m. in the Student Union Flag Room and Thursday and Friday from noon to 3 p.m. in Harriman Hall on South Campus. Flu vaccines are administered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Call Health Services for further information: (716) 829-3316.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
