It’s the most wonderful time of the year: the time of year when everyone inside school spreads sickness to one another.

Personally, I think missing school while being sick is the worst. The transitional period of when the last bout of warm weather leaves and the bone-chilling weather comes in is the exact time when students and teachers catch, what I like to call, the “Annual Sickness.” This sickness comes every year, hence the title “Annual.” Once I realized the shocking phenomenon, I had to spread my knowledge. Thank me later.

Unfortunately, if you do not have a very strong immune system, then you are susceptible to catching the “Annual Sickness.” Even if you have a strong immune system (like myself), sadly, you will also catch this sickness. Even if you think that you will not catch any kind of cold, you are wrong.

Being sick while going to school is a huge struggle. But, on the other hand, going to school while being healthy is another struggle.

On the topic of being sick, you should do yourself a favor and make it a priority to take care of your health.

When you share food off the same fork, bacteria is bound to spread and your immune system will get attacked. So here are a couple of quick tips to make sure that you will not catch this sickness:

Number 1: WASH YOUR HANDS! C’mon guys, this should be common sense.

Number 2: STAY HYDRATED. This is a key essential to staying healthy.

Number 3: Make sure to carry a small pocket-sized tissue pack in your purse or backpack.

Number 4: Have hand sanitizer on you at all times.

Number 5: Get at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night. Getting a good night’s rest is a key essential for staying healthy and energized.

Number 6: Last, but not least, make sure you follow the “public hygiene code” of  coughing/sneezing into your elbow.

If you follow these quick and simple tips… Congratulations! You’ll have common sense and you’re on the right path to staying healthy this cold season, and helping other people do the same.

This has been a PSA.

You’re welcome.