By Amy Keum and Doug Boyle
Staff Writers

As the flu season grows, sicknesses continue to ravage the halls of Westford Academy.

The flu season runs from November and continues even until April. During this time, one can hear the beginnings of coughing, sneezing, and cough drops being popped into the mouths of those with sore throats. Almost everyone seems to be affected in some way, even if just by the common cold, as germs are able to easily spread from person to person.

But do not despair – there are many ways to avoid being victimized by this common infection. Here are five easy things you can do to protect yourself and make sickness more bearable:

1. Wash your hands.

Hands are the perfect host to many viruses and germs so make sure you wash them away frequently with antibacterial soap.

“Wash your hands after you’ve been in contact with anything else. If you’ve gone to the bathroom, if you have anything to eat, anything you know you’re gonna bring your hands to. Wash if you sneeze, especially if you don’t use your shoulder” said WA school nurse, Kathy Bordeau. “Wash often but keep everything in moderation.”

2. Get the flu shot.

The flu shot highly reduces the risk of catching the seasonal influenza. If shots aren’t your thing you can get it in the form of nasal sprays.

“It’s highly recommended,” said Bordeau. Go to your local CVS and get vaccinated within the hour.

3. Try to restrict physical contact from others who are sick.

The closer you are, the greater your chances of sickness. If someone had just rubbed their eyes or coughed, their germs could very easily be transmitted by skin to skin contact. Sharing drinks and food are surefire ways to spread the bacteria.

4. Avoid touching railings, doorknobs, and other public objects.

You never know who has been in contact with public objects. They are most likely swarming with bacteria waiting to find a host, so if possible avoid touching. Try carrying antibacterial hand sanitizers when you don’t have access to washrooms.

5.  Maintain a strong immune system.

Having a weak immune system makes you incredibly vulnerable to catching something, so it’s important to take steps towards building up your immune system. The best way to do this is to get your daily exercise, eat healthy foods, and drink lots of water. Take care of your body and it will take care of you.

Now, if you are one of the many who have already been affected by sickness, have no fear. Here are three more tips to help you nurse your body back into health and make your time more pleasant:

1. Get some rest.

If you’re body is being attacked by germs, it is probably working very hard to fend them off. Take some extra time to give your body a rest. Get at least eight hours of sleep each night and do not overwork yourself.

“Lots and lots of rest. That is key,” said WA Nurse Joan Mitchell.

2. Soothe your sore throat.

If your throat is feeling scratchy and is getting irritated just by speaking, store up on your cough drops and syrups. One of the most soothing and natural methods is taking a spoonful of honey and letting it run down your throat. Also, try turning on your shower and letting your bathroom fill up with steam. It will help the inflammation and open up your passages.

3. Take in lots of vitamin C.

Vitamin C fights off the bad germs inside of your body and can make your sick period considerably shorter. You can get it from drinking orange juice.