Late nights and packed lectures - why freshers' flu is so hard to dodge

The article discusses the reasons behind the common occurrence of freshers' flu among students in the early weeks of term, attributed to a mix of various cold viruses spreading rapidly in shared living and study spaces. Factors like stress, lack of sleep, poor diet, and excessive alcohol consumption during freshers' week can weaken the immune system, making students more susceptible to illnesses. While most cases are mild, the article also highlights the importance of recognizing symptoms that may indicate something more serious, such as meningitis, advising prompt medical attention in such cases.