Freshers‘ Flu Strikes as Students Prioritise Social Life Over wellbeing
University freshers’ weeks are notorious for more than just new experiences – they’re also prime time for illness. A surge in colds, flu, and other infections, ofen dubbed “freshers’ flu,” sweeps through campuses as students adjust to life away from home. But why are new university students notably susceptible?
The answer lies in a combination of factors that compromise the immune system, according to Professor Cruickshank. “Your diet, your level of activity, your level of stress, and sleep are all factors that affect immune functions.” these are areas often neglected during the initial weeks of university life, as students focus on settling in and socialising.
The pressure to adapt to a new habitat, forge friendships, manage academic workloads, and navigate newfound independence creates significant stress.this stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone known to suppress immune responses. “We’ve all had those times when you’re super stressed, you’ve got loads of deadlines, you work, work, work, you finish all the deadlines – and then you get ill,” explains Prof Cruickshank.
Furthermore, stress frequently disrupts sleep patterns, compounding the negative impact on the immune system.Despite understanding the importance of rest, many students prioritise social events during freshers’ week, potentially leaving themselves vulnerable to illness. Professor Cruickshank acknowledges that healthy habits are “not necessarily the first focus” for students during this period of transition.
The immune system itself is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs designed to defend the body against harmful invaders like viruses and bacteria. Though, it requires adequate support to function effectively – support that is frequently enough lacking during the demanding and disruptive experience of starting university.
