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Treat The Frat Flu With These Cold-Buster Essentials

Back-to-school season is here, y’all. But, with all of the fun that comes with back to school, there’s always something lingering in the back of college students’ minds: the return of the infamous “frat flu.” For college students, it’s the season for mysterious sore throats, a lingering cough, and countless visits to the health center — and it’s all thanks to the infamous, enigmatic frat flu.

Even if you do not go to a school with Greek Life, it’s likely you’ve had or heard of the frat flu. ICYMI, the frat flu is a sickness that usually comes after a long weekend, little sleep, and maybe having too much “liquid courage.” (AKA, alcohol consumption.)

Myself and many other college students are no strangers to the frat flu. Let me tell you, the first time I got hit with it, I was not too happy. And, I’ll be real with you: You’re bound to get the frat flu at some point in your college experience. 

I’ve (sadly) had the frat flu several times. But, I certainly have some essentials I bring to school with me to help it. These essentials are perfect for any college student, especially if you’re somebody who thinks they will deal with the frat flu. So, it’s time to get that Amazon cart ready and add these five products to your frat flu survival kit. 

Vicks DayQuil and NyQuil

Every college student needs to have both of these on hand, especially if you get hit with the frat flu. This combo pack ($20) is perfect for your frat flu survival kit. 

Emergen-C 

Emergen-C is something I always make sure to bring to school with me. While I’d rather opt for a glass of freshly squeezed OJ, Emergen-C ($10) is the next best option for busy college students. 

Liquid IV

If you’re feeling especially dehydrated, you need to get yourself some Liquid IV ($24). This is perfect if you need a boost of hydration quickly. 

Pedialyte Electrolyte Popsicles

These Pedialyte Electrolyte Popsicles ($30), are perfect to throw in your freezer for a quick hydration pick-me-up — especially if you’re having trouble keeping things down.

Radical Elements: Immunity + Stress Support

Finally, this water enchanter from Radical Elements ($28) delivers plant-powered protein, hydration, and immune support. Perfect for drinking when you’re feeling under the weather or if you’re craving a little more hydration.

Even though none of us want to deal with the infamous frat flu again, you are well prepared now with these essentials. I hope these essentials help you deal with the infamous frat flu — it’s a cannon event. 

Eileen is a senior at Fairfield University who is studying Communications with minors in English, Professional Writing, and Women’s Gender & Sexuality Studies. She has a passion for magazine writing and hopes to pursue a career in the field. Eileen is the Entertainment & Culture Intern at Her Campus where she covers all things pop culture, entertainment, and internet trends. Eileen was formerly a National Writer for Her Campus from April 2023 - January 2024. Eileen is one of the Campus Correspondents (CCs) at Her Campus' Fairfield University chapter. She oversees the entire chapter and works with her other CC to curate ideas and events for HCFU. She also mentors and trains the editorial team and helps create content and boost engagement alongside the social media team. In her free time, you can find Eileen creating new Spotify playlists, getting a sweet treat with friends, or obsessing over Taylor Swift. If she isn’t doing that, you’ll likely find Eileen with her six best friends from school talking about their “Big Three”: "Normal People," their favorite "Dancing With The Stars" performances, and Greta Gerwig's "Little Women."