As cold and flu season continues, it is important for Keene State staff and students to practice good habits of staying healthy.
Director of The Wellness Center Barbara Berthiaume gave her precautions and advice for students to stay healthy. “In general, staying healthy overall by exercising, eating healthy, drinking plenty of water and getting enough sleep,” she stated in an email. “Avoid folks that are sick, wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water (especially before eating), avoid touching your face, disinfect frequently touched surfaces and get vaccinated.”
For steps to take when flu-like symptoms are not severe but start showing early on, Berthiaume recommended staying home from work and classes to avoid spreading the illness to others.
Berthiaume continued, “If you need to leave your room or home, please consider wearing a mask, cover your coughs and sneezes, drink plenty of fluids to keep hydrated and rest. Medical appointments are generally not necessary when sick with the flu or colds, but if symptoms persist or are not being managed by over-the-counter medications, call your medical provider for advice.”
Students shared ways that they personally stay healthy mentally and physically.
“For ways to stay healthy, I would say exercising, eating healthy and doing something you like to do that is not unhealthy. Reading is pretty good. What you feed in your mind is important on how to stay healthy mentally,” said senior Ezra Lanfear.
Lanfear added it is important to prioritize sleep. “It is crucial for you to get a certain amount of sleep each night, roughly around 8-9 hours,” he said.
“Stay hydrated, take your vitamins,” senior Isabella Nagle said about the importance of going outside and getting vitamin D. Nagle continued, “Doing the little things like washing your hands frequently, what you feed in your body is also so important.”
Sophomore Jillian Johnes agreed with Nagle and said that lately she has been getting air outside and running around campus as a way to stay healthy. “Drinking water is so important. I can not stress that enough, and also moving your body, even if it’s just walking a trail or anything, it is important to stay healthy.”
More students were able to share ways they stay healthy and how they have made a positive impact in their life.
“Personally, I love going for long walks and making sure my mental health is taken care of, not just physical health, but mental health is important,” said sophomore Jordan Gall.
Gall continued, “Even if it’s just for 30 minutes, exercising, going outside, turning off any screens of sorts like your phone, iPad, tablet, computer, whatever it may be, those are important and can improve ways on how you stay healthy.”
“I am on the swim team and my health physically overall is better, my body feels great strength-wise. I would encourage anyone to get in the habit of any physical exercise in order to stay healthy,” said sophomore Ethan Nguyen.
Tamy Jacques can be reached at
tjacques@kscequinox.com
