Protecting your immune system should be top priority this flu season. Beverages like orange juice are good weapons against the war on illness. (Andrea Thyrring / Staff Writer)

Less than a month into the semester, it is hard to believe that flu shots are already being administered in the Brower Student Center (BSC). It’s still summer, right? But with all evidence pointing toward a bad cold and flu season, it’s never too early to begin boosting your immune system to avoid getting sick.

Think about it — a college campus is the ideal breeding ground for viruses and bacteria. High traffic areas, like the library and the BSC, expose you to coughs, sneezes, and germy surfaces. If you live in a dorm, you might share a bathroom and living space with at least 30 other people. In any given day, you will come in contact with millions of germs and not even think about it.

With national health agencies predicting widespread sickness this season, it is important to be aware of health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “more communities may be affected (by the H1N1 flu virus) than were affected in spring/summer 2009, reflecting wider transmission and possibly greater impact.”

Health Services has already sent out an e-mail outlining symptoms and appropriate protocol for those who fall ill. Both the CDC and the New Jersey Department of Health have recommended that flu shots be available in preparation for the upcoming season.

But whether or not you get a flu shot, it is important to be proactive with your health. Taking a few simple precautions could be the difference between staying healthy and being sent home. So what can you do to avoid getting sick this year?

First and foremost, wash your hands. Use warm water and soap after coming in contact with high-traffic surfaces: door handles, railings, counter tops, library computers, etc.  And break the habit of touching your eyes, nose and mouth. This will prevent germs from entering your body.

Get enough sleep. When your body is well rested, it is able to focus on fighting off germs and not on keeping you awake during your first class.

Similarly, exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Keeping your body in tiptop shape will help you fight off infections and colds.

Be sure to drink enough fluids. Germs thrive in dry throats and noses, so drinking at least eight servings of tea, water or juice per day will help to keep these areas moist and able to trap viruses and bacteria.

Eat a balanced diet. Seeking out foods rich in color is a safe way to get all of your nutrients. By having plenty of fruits and vegetables — and cutting back on sugar and fatty foods — your body will get the fuel it needs to keep you running.

Focus on getting adequate amounts of cold and flu fighting nutrients. Studies have shown that vitamin C improves immune function. Consuming oranges, or orange juice, is a great way to supplement your intake.

Also, zinc is one of the most important minerals in overall immune function. Keeping lozenges containing zinc on hand is a good idea when trying to fight off a cold.

And for the sake of those around you, cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. A good strategy is to use your elbow, instead of your hands, to cover your mouth — this avoids transferring germs from place to place.

Taking precautionary measures this season will help you avoid getting sick and keep your immune system working properly. But if you do find yourself under the weather, know when to throw in the towel. Contact your healthcare provider at the first sign of a fever or other flu-like symptoms — you’ll save yourself a lot of trouble, and protect the campus from one more source of germs.