OPINION: Staying well in the fluctuating weather is paramount

The weather in Raleigh has been pretty extreme and variable this year. This is the general statement of those who braved the weather. Since I come from a relatively moderate climate, this entire period was no less than an ordeal (and an adventure). However, it’s not all as adventurous as it would seem.

There are many problems associated with both extreme weather as well as rapid fluctuations in weather.  In extreme weather conditions (in our case, extreme cold), prolonged exposure leads to adverse effects like fever and in some cases can have more serious effects.

This effect is more evident when a major chunk of the student population consists of international students. For example, while I have been to extremely cold areas, I’ve never had snow near my residence itself. And from what I have gathered after talking to the native population of Raleigh, it snowed rather frequently this year as compared to the previous years, which is itself an indication of the kind of temperature our city has withstood this year.

Aside from the direct effects, there are also indirect effects of drastic change in weather. For example, consider the recent flu outbreak. Raleigh faced an extremely cold winter season this time. During cold, the immune system of the body is at risk, which increases the chances of catching the flu.

The flu outbreak in the country has claimed many lives throughout the country, claiming 165 lives in North Carolina alone. The situation is grave, and the slightest negligence can have severe consequences.

The situation is worsened by the fact that the flu shot is only protecting one in three people this year, meaning that in six or seven cases out of 10, it won’t have much of an effect. (Note that the vaccine being ineffective does not imply that one will develop the flu. It only means that the probability of the flu vaccine stopping the vaccinated from acquiring the flu is less substantial).

However, flu vaccines still can reduce the chance of getting sick and the severity of the illness. The NC State health department has done a commendable job by offering flu vaccinations and giving fliers and information about the outbreak.

I feel that the students need to be particularly cautious, because we come in contact with a lot of people and environments, and the flu is contagious. It can be transferred by as far as six feet, simply by transfer of sneeze droplets (disgusting and dangerous). And it may be transferred by a person who has the flu but is unaware.

Precaution is better than a cure and since the success rate of the flu vaccine is not very encouraging, it becomes extremely important to take the necessary precautions. The most basic prevention is avoiding any environment/contact where germs can get exchanged. A few basic precautions to prevent the flu are to maintain cleanliness, particularly the hands. Pay close attention to your daily routine, and if any symptoms like cough or sore throat exist, take immediate action.

I also suggest that we take care of everyone around us. If a person is seen with symptoms of the flu, they should be made aware of it. If one is sick, one should stay indoors as much as possible until the situation clears.

I am living a great life at NC State and I am grateful for the experiences that I have had here and continue to have. The entire Wolfpack is my family and I will not hesitate to help any member of my family. Hence I wish to request all of you to understand the gravity of the situation, and not take it lightly. Remember, strength of the wolf is the pack.