With the beginning of the holiday season, there comes a time of sickness spreading throughout the community. This winter, new strains of COVID-19, influenza and RSV are affecting New Hyde Park and the world, commonly known as the “tripledemic.” This has caused health concerns and educational adjustments among staff, students and parents in the New Hyde Park community.

It is common to see students staying indoors more often, getting together in groups during colder months. Spending more time indoors, where ventilation may be poor, creates a closed environment that doesn’t constantly circulate air throughout the area. However, these factors create a suitable environment for pathogens to breed, which leads to respiratory infections spreading rapidly. Also, the lack of exposure to the sun and the increase in exposure to cold weather play a role in weakening immune systems by slowing down the body’s ability to regenerate mucus, a key complement in preventing pathogens from entering bodies.

“With all the illnesses spreading around the school, it makes me very worried that I might get sick and bring the sickness back home to my family, where it could spread even further,” junior Ryan Lin said.

“A lot of people around me are sick during the winter time and I see many people coming to school not wearing proper clothing that can protect them from frigid winter temperature,” junior Max Josue said.

To increase the body’s ability to fight against tripledemic diseases, school nurse Ms. Romano recommends preventative measures to protect the faculty and students around the school:

• Avoid  close contact with people who are sick.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• Avoid touching your eyes/nose/mouth after touching dirty surfaces- wipe tables/desks with antibacterial wipes before you sit down.

• Do not share water bottles or eating utensils.

• Stay home from school/work and limit contact with others if you are sick.

• Cover your mouth/nose when coughing/sneezing and wash your hands afterwards.

Implementing simple goals into everyday life can increase one’s fighting ability against these illnesses. According to the Centers for Disease Control, people can significantly boost their immune systems against infections and disease just by eating healthy: fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. They also recommend exercising often, maintaining a sufficient sleep schedule and avoiding harmful substances.

Although the “tripledemic” can be an imposing threat to the well-being of the New Hyde Park community, there are many ways to prevent the spread of these diseases. By understanding how viruses spread, students and faculty alike can enjoy the festive season while putting health first.