Freshers' flu

Everything you need to know from symptoms to treatment

Freshers' season is upon us! Whilst it's a lot of fun meeting new people, getting settled into your new home and exploring the city, it's unfortunately a time when sickness goes around.

Freshers' flu is a common nickname for a mix of cold- and flu-like bugs that hit new students during the first few weeks on campus.

Common symptoms

• Sore or scratchy throat
• Runny or blocked nose
• Cough
• Fatigue and body aches
• Mild fever or headache

These symptoms typically peak within a few days, but they do clear up on their own within a week or two.

How to treat it?

✅ Rest: Give your body time to recover instead of pushing through.

✅ Hydrate: Make sure you're drinking plenty of water.

✅ Medication: Use paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage fevers and aches.

✅ Visit a doctor: If you're still feeling unwell after two weeks, or if your symptoms worsen, make sure you seek medical advice. Book an appointment and talk to our on-site doctors.

It's always best to register with a GP before starting your course in case of any medical emergencies, whether they're minor or major!

When to seek urgent help

While freshers' flu is usually harmless, symptoms can be confused with more serious illnesses like meningitis.

Call 999 or seek emergency help immediately if you notice severe symptoms, such as:

• A severe headache and a stiff neck
• An aversion to bright lights
• A high temperature combined with cold hands and feet
• Drowsiness, confusion or difficulty waking up
• A red or purple rash that does not fade when a glass is pressed against it

It's important to take care of your health and well-being as well as getting the most out of your first few weeks of university. Make sure you wash your hands regularly, clean surfaces in communal spaces and eat healthy, balanced meals to protect your immune system.