Freshers’ flu is a well-known challenge for university students across the UK, described as a combination of a bad cold and a lingering hangover – often brought on by the social whirlwind of Freshers’ Week. Whether you’re a fresher, a third-year, or a master’s student, you’re likely to encounter it at some point during your time at university.

In light of this, Mystudenthalls.com has teamed up with health expert Dr William Colyer to offer advice on reducing the risk of catching Freshers’ Flu, while also identifying the top hotspots for the illness across the UK.

With Freshers’ Week in full swing at many universities, staying healthy is key to making the most of the experience. Dr. Colyer shares his top tips on avoiding the flu and other illnesses during this busy time.

Sanitise frequently

Freshers’ Flu spreads rapidly due to the close contact between students from different areas. Dr Colyer stresses, “Whether it’s hand sanitising at any opportunity or regularly washing your hands (especially before meals), these are the most effective ways to keep cold and flu germs at bay.” He also advises against sharing personal items like towels or utensils with flatmates to reduce the risk of spreading illness.

Manage stress and prioritise mental health

“University life is exciting, but the pressures of settling in can affect mental health,” says Dr Colyer. “When you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol, which can weaken the immune system and make you more vulnerable to illness.” To stay healthy, he recommends students take time for relaxation and self-care amidst the excitement of the first few weeks.

Eat well and stay active

While it’s tempting to live off fast food during Freshers’ Week, Dr Colyer highlights the importance of a nutritious diet. “Maintaining a balanced diet and staying active will help support your immune system. Try to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your meals, and most importantly, stay hydrated.” He suggests exploring student discount services like HelloFresh or Gousto for quick and nutritious meals that can be shared with flatmates.

Consider vitamins and supplements

Taking vitamins and supplements can provide additional support for students struggling with poor diets or alcohol consumption. “A multivitamin like Berocca, containing essential B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, and zinc, can help replenish nutrients lost due to a poor diet or after drinking alcohol. These can support energy levels and boost the immune system,” Dr Colyer advises.

He also notes that milk thistle may aid in liver detoxification after heavy drinking, although its effectiveness is limited. “Ultimately, the best remedies for hangovers and staying healthy are hydration, a balanced diet, and plenty of rest,” he adds.

Moderation is key

Freshers’ Week typically involves a lot of alcohol, but Dr Colyer warns that excessive drinking can weaken the immune system. “The NHS advises consuming no more than 14 units of alcohol per week, spread across several days. This is equivalent to about six medium glasses of wine or six pints of 4% beer,” he says. He encourages students to balance social events with non-alcoholic activities like movie nights.

Prioritise sleep

“Sleep is one of the most important factors in staying healthy,” explains Dr Colyer. “With so many social events and early lectures, students often struggle to get the recommended 7–9 hours of sleep. Establishing a bedtime routine, avoiding screens before sleep, and making time for rest are essential for staying well.”

Register with a GP

Dr. Colyer strongly advises students to register with a GP in their new city. “This ensures quick access to medical care when needed, whether it’s for a cold, flu, or something more serious. It’s reassuring to know you have support when you’re away from home.”

When freshers’ flu may be something more serious

While most cases of Freshers’ Flu are mild, Dr Colyer urges students to be aware of more serious conditions that may present similar symptoms.

• Meningitis. A high fever, light sensitivity, stiff neck, or a rash resembling red or purple pinpricks could indicate meningitis, which can be life-threatening. Immediate medical help is required, and the NHS offers the MenACWY vaccination to protect against certain strains.
• Mumps. Characterised by facial swelling, commonly under the ears, known as “hamster face”, mumps usually resolve on their own. But Dr Colyer advises staying away from social events for at least five days and consulting a GP.
• Glandular fever. Symptoms like a high fever, swollen glands, and a severe sore throat could signal glandular fever. This illness spreads through saliva, so students should avoid sharing utensils or drinks. Rest and hydration are recommended, along with seeking medical advice.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea may go unnoticed due to mild or absent symptoms. If untreated, they can cause long-term health issues. Symptoms include unusual discharge, painful urination, or sores. Many universities offer sexual health clinics where students can access testing and treatment.

The top freshers’ flu hotspots in the UK

Mystudenthalls.com has ranked the UK’s top university cities based on several factors, including the number of undergraduates, searches for Freshers’ Flu symptoms, and flu vaccine uptake, revealing where students are most at risk of catching the flu.

Manchester tops the list, with 26,512 undergraduates per 100,000 people, creating a hotspot for illness. The city saw over 2,600 searches for flu symptoms last year, yet flu vaccine uptake was low, with only 302 per 1,000 receiving the vaccine.

Glasgow comes in second, despite having fewer undergraduates (14,632 per 100,000) than Manchester. Leeds, with 76,075 undergraduates, takes third place, though its higher vaccine uptake rates provide some relief. Other high-risk cities include Edinburgh, Bristol, and Liverpool, each facing challenges such as low GP availability and high flu rates.

Dan Roberts, director at Mystudenthalls.com, notes: “Freshers’ flu is a common issue for students, especially in their first few weeks. We conducted this study to highlight the areas most affected and remind students of the importance of self-care when starting university.”