Why Do College Students Get Sick So Often?

Sit in a crowded lecture hall for any amount of time and you will soon notice the professor having to speak over an endless cacophony of coughs and sneezes. Why do college students get sick so often, and what can be done about it?

The main culprit here is non-COVID respiratory illnesses—particularly viral infections like the common cold and flu—which run rampant on college campuses due to the typically close living quarters, shared dining halls and restrooms, and frequent social activities. There is no cure for these common bugs, which can take up to a few weeks to fully run their course. In the meantime, it is important to rest, drink plenty of water, and take an over-the-counter remedy if necessary to alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. Of course, this prognosis might sound bleak to a normally active college student, but it is essential to take sufficient time to recover and avoid spreading the illness to others.

It Seems to Be Getting Worse—Is It?

This year, many colleges are seeing an uptick in non-COVID-related respiratory infections. Some experts attribute this phenomenon to the fact that most students have returned to campus and are now attending classes in person instead of staying home and learning remotely. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many students spent a year or so sequestered at home with little exposure to common respiratory viruses—and when they did venture out, they probably wore a cloth face mask in public places as an added layer of protection. Recent changes in behavior have likely contributed to the recent spike in illnesses on college campuses. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that there are more or worse infections circulating this year.

Being sick is no fun. If you are attending college in Tampa, FL, and you need medical attention, you are welcome to visit South Tampa Immediate Care. Our walk-in medical clinic is conveniently located at 602 S. Howard Ave., where we offer prompt diagnostic and treatment services for non-emergency illnesses and injuries. We can help you stay healthy so you can make the most of your college experience.