As Texas heat finally gives in and November gifts cooler weather, the holidays are right around the corner. But pumpkin spice lattes and sweaters aren’t the only autumn plans — flu season is right on our heels.

Given the inevitable close quarters that campuses foster, flu season is prominent among college students. From doorknobs to stairwell railings, many surfaces serve as opportunities for contracting viruses.

Even though flu viruses and colds spread like wildfires on college campuses, young adults tend to have the lowest vaccination coverage, according to the CDC.

“I am not terribly scared,” said Daniel Grumm, freshman mechanical engineering major from Fremont, California. “If I get sick, I get sick.”

Deana Perez, BSN, RN at the ACU Medical & Counseling Care Center, said that her advice is to always practice good hygiene habits.

“Handwashing is a must,” Perez said. “Of course, always covering your face with the bend of your arm when you cough and sneeze, and staying home when you have a fever is always best practice as well.”

If sick, Perez said the MACCC’s standard recommendation is to wait until fever-free for 24 hours.

“And of course, we still have some flu vaccines left here at the MACCC for those who have not received one yet this season,” Perez said.

Getting sick this year isn’t inevitable; there are simple but effective ways to stay healthy this fall.

If you do fall ill this year, remember to prioritize your health, said Ethan Larrew, senior government major from Berthoud, Colorado.

“School is important, but your health is the utmost important,” Larrew said. “Take it from a senior, it’s better to complete your school work at 100 percent than try to give 100 percent when you’re at 50.”

It is perfectly OK to stay home and recuperate when you’re feeling sick, Larrew said.

So as fall and winter breaks approach, the CDC encourages students to avoid taking the flu home for the holidays, stay healthy and practice good hygiene.