Nationally, there has been a significant increase in seasonal illnesses this winter. Influenza, COVID-19, and RSV cases are on the rise. According to Johns Hopkins Public Health experts, “Cases of flu are rising sharply with high activity expected to continue.”
Why does sickness increase in winter? Cold weather is a big factor because influenza, COVID-19, and many other viruses, thrive in cold dry air. Further, people tend to crowd indoors because of the cold weather, and germs spread quickly, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces. Englewood Health recommends frequent hand washing and wearing masks to reduce the risk of infection.
Sophomore Bailee Cleghon got flu B at the end of January this year.
“I had to miss about a week and a half of school.” Cleghon said. “I only get sick in the winter. When the sun is out I am fine.”
Freshman Grace Douglass was sick at the beginning of March with strep throat. Douglass missed three days of school this winter.
Being sick and absent as a student is extremely hard. It affects students in many ways. You can’t come to school, therefore you are missing valuable learning time that you can’t get back. Grades tend to drop in the winter because of the illness and absence of students.
