Starting off the Spring Semester with a virus can make being successful more difficult, but fortunately, preventative measures and solutions for getting better are as easy as catching the virus itself.

“Staying healthy and healing isn’t rocket science, it’s very logical and simple!” said Allison Barton, Moorpark College Health Center’s health educator.

Given the colder weather, many students are staying indoors, containing the germs in these areas and remaining in close vicinity to the sick. This is why we are seeing such a high amount of colds and flus going around, said Barton.

In order to try to prevent catching the viruses, as well as recovering from one, be sure to get lots of fresh air, drink lots of water, frequently wash your hands with a mild soap, eat a healthy diet filled with nutrients and vitamins, especially vitamin C, and most importantly, stay away from others who are sick, said Barton.

“It’s also important to get a lot of rest,” said Barton. “This not only helps with recovery, but relieves stress and helps students focus.”

The Health Center is an extremely useful recourse that we have on campus. It contains a Self-Help center in the lobby with all types of things that a student could find themselves needing during cold season, such as Tylenol, cough drops, and Chapstick.

“We want to support the academic success of students as much as we can,” said Barton.

Some students, like Michael Shelley, 19, got sick even though they were proactive against it. Shelley took vitamin C every morning as well as ate a full breakfast and has been drinking plenty of water.

“Just because you take preventative measures, it doesn’t mean you won’t get sick,” he said.

Other students have been able to make it through ‘flu season’ untouched by the virus. Alia Bastain, 18, has been warding off the virus by keeping her hands clean, not touching her face, and taking Airbourne for a vitamin C boost, she said

“I’m convinced I’ll get sick soon because everyone around me is sick,” said Bastain. “I’ve just been lucky so far I guess.”

For more information or access to the available resources, visit the Student Health Services office in the Administration building, room 111 or call (805) 378-1413.