Unfortunately, it is very likely that you are going to get ill at some point when you are at university – in fact, there is a strong chance in you getting ‘fresher’s flu’ in your first few weeks. This is because universities have a high volume of people from all over coming together and sharing their germs! Hopefully, it won’t be too serious, but this guide has been written to help you avoid and cope with getting ill at university.

Register with a GP

First things first – register with a doctor! Do this as soon as you arrive; don’t wait to get ill. You need to be registered with a GP where you spend most of your time, not back at home! You are much more likely to get ill at term time and registering as a new patient can take some time. Lots of universities have medical practices associated with them, or you might want to register with the practice closest to your accommodation. For more information on finding a GP, visit the NHS website.

Don’t worry about what happens if you get ill when you’re back home for the holidays – you will be able to visit your old doctors surgery as a temporary patient end receive emergency treatment. It is much, much better to be registered at university and be a temporary patient at home than the other way around. For more information about seeing a doctor when away from your registered GP, see the NHS Website. 

How to avoid getting ill

If you want to avoid getting ill, just be as hygienic as possible. It’s probably second nature now, but remember to wash your hands and avoid touching your face. Try to keep your distance from those that you know are unwell. Clean your kitchen surfaces before you cook and ensure your food is cooked thoroughly. Wash your bed clothes regularly and just keep as hygienic as possible.

If you want to stay healthy, it’s also important to take care of yourself. Stress, poor eating and low quality sleep can make you more susceptible to picking up bugs, so have a look at these articles to help combat these issues and remain healthy.

• Mental health
• Sleep
• Diet
• Exam stress

What to do if you do fall ill

Being ill at uni can be very isolating. When we’re are home, there are normally people around to take care of you, but at uni you are likely to be on your own. Unfortunately, this is one of those ‘life skill’ moments where you have to learn to take care of yourself.

The first thing you need to do is think about what you actually need to recover. Do you have enough food and liquids at home? Do you need any specific medicine? Do you need to order anything in or ask a flatmate to pick anything up for you? Having a few bits in, in case of a sudden illness is always helpful, but if you need supplies, consider how you might get them. I’m sure a flatmate will be able to help, but ensure you show them gratitude and repay in kind should they fall ill. Don’t forget, you can buy things online now too so you do have options.

You need to think about exactly how ill you are. Do you need to speak with a doctor? Do you need to stay at home for a few days to recover? If it’s a bad cold or over-tiredness, stay in bed, drink lots of fluids and eat sensibly.  If you’re not feeling better in a couple of days, or you get a really high temperature, think about going to the doctor.

Do you need to miss class or are you unable to complete assignments? If that is the case speak with you university and find out the procedure. Each university, sometimes each department, will do things differently, so be absolutely sure you know what is expected of you should you fall ill. Don’t just miss things and expect to sort it out after! You wouldn’t be able to do that in a job, you shouldn’t do it in university. Mum isn’t going to call in for you – you have to do this yourself!

If you become seriously ill, it is essential that you communicate this with your university. If this is going to affect your tenancy, you should also let Unipol know too. If you become so ill that you need to leave your course and your tenancy, you may be able to apply for Tenancy Release – remember, you have signed a legally binding contract so you are still responsible for the payment of the rent until the end of your tenancy. However, if you do become very ill, we would look to support you, but might require some documentation from the doctor to support your application for Tenancy Release. Please don’t leave without telling us!

If you have any questions or concerns about your health while you living with Unipol, please feel free to get in touch with Tenancy Support by emailing tenancysupport@unipol.org.uk. While we can’t diagnose you, we can certainly support you in finding the help you need!