It’s that time of year again. When the hallways are filled with coughs and sniffles, it means the frat flu is back. Especially during midterms, it’s important to stay on top of your health. To help you fight back, Stevens has a large variety of resources, from free yoga to flu shots, to support your physical and mental health.
Frat flu describes symptoms like coughing and runny nose that often happen after college party scenes. It doesn’t have an actual medical definition because students are actually experiencing the common cold. Due to dorming, larger class sizes, and packed social events (especially parties), students are more likely to interact with someone infectious.
The Stevens Student Health Services provides services like health promotion, disease prevention and treatment, and referrals to outside providers when appropriate. They are located in the Student Wellness Center, next to North Hall, and are appointment only. Appointments can be scheduled through the Healthy Stevens Portal or by calling 201-216-5678. Their office hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For medical emergencies, you can contact the campus police at 201-216-3911 to receive an immediate response.
There is no charge for treatment at Student Health Services, but students are responsible for paying for off-campus tests, medications, and referrals. Services like shots at Student Health Services must be paid with DuckBills. There is no charge for students with Aetna Student Health Insurance. Students with private insurance must use the Healthy Stevens Portal for a receipt copy to file for reimbursement with the insurance company. Some shots and tests include the flu shot ($20), COVID-19 rapid test ($10), and Hepatitis B immunization ($35 – $75).
Moreover, it’s necessary to maintain a healthy diet. You can contact Carmine Ingenito, Stevens’s Registered Dietitian, at dietitian@stevens.edu or schedule appointments to improve your relationship with food and nutrition. Meanwhile, Pierce Dining Hall has various events promoting wellness, including Wellness Wednesday and Feel Good Foods.
However, that doesn’t mean you should forget about your mental health, especially during the stress of midterms. During the 2024-2025 academic year, students can receive free yoga classes from Asana Soul Practice. While mats aren’t provided, you can bring your own or rent a mat for $3. Students can attend one class per day and must pre-register online. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact Stevens’ Office of Counseling and Psychological Services at caps@stevens.edu.
Despite the sometimes overwhelming schoolwork, you should always remember to take care of yourself. Stay hydrated, sleep well, eat healthy, and keep your stress down. Don’t let frat flu get the best of you!
