Stay Healthy This Season: Flu and Covid-19 Prevention on Campus

Two women wearing masks engage in conversation while maintaining social distance on public seating steps. Source: freepik.com

As campus fills with energy this fall, with students returning for classes, homecoming, and midterms, the sound of sniffles and coughs is never far behind. Respiratory illnesses like influenza and COVID-19 spread more easily in shared spaces such as lecture halls, libraries, and residence buildings. While catching a virus may feel like an unavoidable part of student life, there are clear and practical steps you can take to protect yourself and help keep the Queen’s community healthy.  

1. Get Vaccinated 

The single most effective way to prevent serious illness is through vaccination. Annual flu vaccines reduce the risk of infection and protect against severe complications. Staying up to date on COVID-19 vaccines offers continued protection as immunity naturally decreases over time. To make this easier for students, Queen’s Student Wellness Services is offering on-campus vaccination clinics, a convenient option that ensures you do not miss out because of a busy schedule.  

Learn how to book an appointment here. 

2. Practice Everyday Hygiene 

Good hygiene habits provide an important layer of defense. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or after being in shared spaces. Avoid touching your face since germs can enter through the eyes, nose, and mouth. When you cough or sneeze, use your elbow or a tissue to limit the spread.

3. Stay Home if you are Sick 

Attending classes, labs and tutorials while unwell can spread illness to peers and prolong your recovery. If you experience symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, runny nose, or fatigue, rest at home and make use of online course materials when available. Staying home protects classmates and helps you recover more quickly. 

4. Support Your Health 

Your immune system functions best when supported by healthy daily habits. Aim for adequate sleep, balanced meals, and consistent hydration. Stress from coursework, midterms, or social commitments can lower resistance to infection, so schedule downtime, make time for physical activity, spend time outdoors, and/or mindfulness practices to maintain balance. 

5. Know the Signs 

Most respiratory infections are mild/moderate and can be self-managed, but it is important to recognize when to seek medical care. Contact a healthcare professional if you have trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, or a high fever that does not improve.  

6. Take Action 

This fall, two simple actions matter most: get vaccinated and stay home when sick. Taking these steps protects your own well-being and also safeguards the health of your peers, instructors, and the wider Queen’s community. 

Staying healthy during the fall semester helps you focus on academics, friendships, and campus life. Choosing simple actions such as vaccination, hygiene, and rest when sick protects both you and those around you. Together, these efforts create a stronger and healthier Queen’s community. 

Sources/References:   

• https://www.publichealthontario.ca/  

• https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-4-active-vaccines/page-26-covid-19-vaccine.html  

• https://www.queensu.ca/studentwellness/resources/sws-updates