.The influenza virus has been a big topic throughout the fall and winter seasons of Woodbridge High School. So many students and teachers calling out, but for the same reason?  

Many students, as well as teachers, are glued to their beds for the period of time they are sick. Many of the symptoms include very similar casualties to the COVID-19 virus such as coughing, a high fever, body aches, and a sore throat, causing people to be confused about what sickness they may have. 

Student Elise Gurovich was sick with the flu four days before she went on her vacation to Jamacia over break, saying  “… kids were sick in my classes, so I definitely caught it from them. My stomach hurt really bad, I also had body aches. My fever was high for three days straight.” Elise Gurovich started to feel better a day before her trip, and still ended up going to Jamaica for fall break.

Nurse Gralla strongly believes everyone should get the flu shot, and that it is very helpful and prevents the flu.

On the matter, she said, “It seems there has been a general uptick in respiratory viruses. Between COVID, RSV, and the flu, I think the general population has become more vulnerable.”

She believes all of these viruses are similar with alike symptoms. Gralla said that the main ways to avoid catching any virus similar to the flu are to wash hands frequently, avoid sharing food, and sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm. 

Gralla said, “drink lots of water and eat healthy, these things will boost your immune system and help you resist illness.”

To view more stories about Woodbridge High School events and happenings, go to the Barron Perspective website. Here, you can view previous coverage of sickness at Woodbridge High.