[Student Reporters] Changing Seasons Bring Rise in Colds

Hanbin Oh
10th grade
Asia Pacific
International School

In April 2011 the number of students who caught colds dramatically increased in Asia Pacific International School (APIS) due to the influence of rapidly changing seasons. Although flowers started to bloom and forests once again found their colors the overall health of APIS students has weakened.

Ms. Julie Jung the school officer stated that the statistics show more students were absent because of sickness in April than students did in March. Also according to the research approximately five students caught a cold in a single class and one or two students missed school due to the sickness. Ashley Chang, a victim of the influenza said "I had a horrible time and I still have not recovered." The trend also influenced the nurse room. Ms. Kim the school nurse claimed "Use of Tylenol and fever reducer greatly increased in this month."

How are the changing seasons making people vulnerable to viruses? The answer comes from the huge difference of temperature between day and night. Our body uses up more energy than usual to adjust to the rapidly changing environment and when our stamina weakens it provides a perfect environment for viruses to flourish.

Therefore we should try to prevent colds during the change of the seasons with five simple strategies…

1. Washing hands frequently

2. Exercising regularly

3. Getting deep sleep

4. Ventilating regularly

5. Wearing warm clothes

However make sure you are not socially isolating your friends just because they caught colds!