Searches for the term 'freshers' flu' have risen by 1,100 per cent in recent days, according to N1. The term, known in the UK as 'freshers' flu', follows a pattern that repeats every September, having been seen for the past decade. The record for searches was recorded in 2021.
Experts warn that it is most often not true flu. Professor Ed Hutchinson of the University of Glasgow explains that the word 'flu' is often used in everyday language for various illnesses and symptoms, whereas medically flu refers to infection by influenza viruses. At this time of year, in the northern hemisphere, the number of cases of true flu is usually low and rises later in the winter. It is much more likely that the symptoms students call 'freshers' flu' are the result of another respiratory infection. Among the possible causes is SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus, as well as rhinovirus, one of the most common causes of the common cold. According to data from the health service, the number of cases of coronavirus rose by 38 per cent in September compared to the previous week.
Students at the start of the academic year come from different parts of the country and begin living in shared spaces, such as student halls. Suddenly, they are exposed to a large number of people and viruses to which their immune system may not have been exposed before. The situation can be further worsened by sleepless nights, stress, a change of environment, a different lifestyle, and greater amounts of alcohol. Hutchinson warns that being tired and stressed can weaken the immune system. Infections that are most often hidden behind 'freshers' flu' are generally short-lived, and most people recover quickly.
COVID-19 can cause fever, cough, fatigue, headache, body aches, sore throat, blocked nose, loss of or changes in the sense of smell and taste, shortness of breath, nausea, and diarrhoea. Rhinovirus most commonly causes cough, sneezing, runny and blocked nose, sore throat, headache, body aches, and fever. Due to the overlap in symptoms, it is not always easy to know which infection is involved based solely on how a person feels.
Experts warn students not to attribute every feeling of illness to 'freshers' flu'. Young people, especially those who have just started university and live in shared accommodation, can be exposed to meningitis. Meningitis can spread through close or frequent contact, coughing, sneezing, and kissing, and early symptoms can look like flu or even a hangover. Among the warning signs are high temperature with cold hands and feet, vomiting, extreme drowsiness or difficulty waking up, severe muscle or head pain, pale and blotchy skin, a rash that does not fade under pressure, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, seizures, and confusion. If such symptoms appear, it is recommended to seek medical help immediately.
Professor John Tregoning from Imperial College London advises students to stick to basic measures that many have adopted during the pandemic. This means washing hands regularly, covering the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, and, where possible, staying in well-ventilated or open spaces. It is important to check that vaccinations are up to date, including the flu vaccine for those to whom it is recommended. If you do fall ill, experts advise avoiding crowded enclosed spaces and allowing enough time for rest and recovery.
