By TANGELA JOHNSON

Staff Writer

Preventing wintertime illnesses on campus may be as simple as washing your hands, Alisa Washam, a registered nurse for the Student Health Center, said.

She believes the problem of getting ill does not necessarily stem from unkempt dorm rooms.

"It's not so much being dirty as being in close contact with sick people," Washam said.

Paige Pickett, an RN at the Health Center, agrees.

"Students should use good antibacterial soap and make sure they wash their hands really well," Pickett said.

Though Pickett also said she feels contact with sick people is to blame, she said she still believes clean student living quarters can be effective.

"[Students] should wash their sheets and spray [their rooms] with Lysol," Pickett said.

Washam also attributes illnesses to students' poor sleeping habits from late-night study sessions.

"When you're tired, your resistance is a little lower," Washam said.

Washam said she feels, in addition to trying to get more rest, students should take a supplement to combat winter sniffles.

"I would recommend a multivitamin for extra energy and extra vitamin C," Washam said.

Washam also said keeping toothbrushes clean and covered could also significantly reduce the chances of getting ill.

Nick Jackson, a freshman biology major, said he believes the way to stay well is more directly tied into cleanliness and exercise than anything else.

"[Students that] wear [the same] clothes three days in a row and don't clean themselves cause illnesses," Jackson said.

He also said he thinks a sedentary lifestyle of studying and classes contributes to having lower defenses during the cold and flu season.

Jackson said though he does not eat the healthiest food, he works out three days a week. He said he believes this is why he has never contracted the flu.

"I believe that exercising regularly helps reduce chances of becoming ill," Jackson said.

He said he feels that the use of illegal drugs by some students weakens their immune system, leaving them more prone to getting colds and the flu than if they were drug-free.

Jackson said, "To stay well in the winter, students should work out, get enough rest at night, keep warm and avoid participating in illicit substances."

Washam and Pickett said ultimately, the best ways to keep well are to avoid sharing drinks and food and wash your hands thoroughly and often.

Washam said these efforts may seem small, but they are extremely effective in keeping students in class and out of the doctor's office during the winter flu season.

Washam said, "Simple things can make a big difference."