Sick at School?
Being sick at college is not a fun time. There aren’t really any “sick days” like there are in high school: homework and classwork still need to be completed, regardless of how ill you’re feeling. With the infamous Hokie Plague spreading all kinds of nasty germs around, here is how to survive being sick at school.
An ordinary cold or flu can easily be combated in the comfort and privacy of your own dorm room. Dayquil and Nyquil, Tylenol, and other over-the-counter medications can be found at any store around town, including the on-campus convenience store. Just make sure to read and follow the dosage instructions! While at the store, it may be a good idea to grab some cleansing wipes to keep germs to a minimum and reduce the likelihood of your roommate catching your illness. Most of the dining halls nearby offer soups, which is a great decision to calm a sore throat and warm you up from the inside. Hot teas are also a great option, as they can help boost your immune system and energy level.
If you find after a couple days that the medicines aren’t working or if you feel like you might be truly sick, there are a few clinics in the area. On campus is Schiffert, which requires an appointment scheduled online. Although convenient, Schiffert has a bad reputation for misdiagnosing more severe illnesses and for giving medications that aren’t necessarily the most helpful. I personally prefer MedExpress, located in Christiansburg, near the Target and the Barnes and Noble. This clinic is professional and friendly, and they always take the time to properly diagnose and treat illnesses to the best of their abilities. Upon receiving a prescription, there are several pharmacies around town, many of which are very close to bus stops.
Unfortunately, the days of staying home sick are pretty much over, but taking care of yourself through your first cold away from home is strangely satisfying. You’re one step closer to being an adult!
