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When people picture college life, they often think of fun social events, packed lecture halls, and long nights of studying. What they don’t always picture is the reality that many college students face early on: getting sick or injured far from home. For many freshmen, this is the first time they’re responsible for their own health care. And with new routines, unfamiliar environments, and packed schedules, illnesses and accidents can sneak up quickly.
Yes — studies and campus health reports show that college students get sick more frequently, especially during their first year. This increase is often due to shared living spaces like dormitories, communal bathrooms, and crowded classrooms. When you combine this with stress, irregular sleep, poor eating habits, and exposure to new bacteria and viruses, you get a recipe for sickness.
It's common to hear students ask:
Why do college students get sick so often?
What are the most common illnesses in college students?
Why do college freshmen get sick more than upperclassmen?
At Portland Urgent Care, we commonly treat students from nearby colleges for issues such as:
How often do college students get sick? Many experience at least one significant illness per semester, especially during fall and winter months when flu and cold viruses are circulating.
In addition to sickness, injuries are a growing concern. Whether it’s from intramural sports, slipping on wet walkways, or exhaustion-related accidents, students are prone to physical injuries. We regularly see sprains, strains, fractures, and sports-related concussions among our college-age patients.
Here are key health tips for students to minimize their risk of getting sick or injured:
1. Get Vaccinated: Before heading off to school, make sure you are up to date on vaccinations. Recommended vaccines include:
2. Create a Personal Health Kit: Pack a kit with essentials:
3. Write Down a Medical History: Include allergies, past illnesses, surgeries, medications, and family health conditions. This is helpful in case of an emergency or clinic visit.
4. Practice Healthy Habits:
Don’t Delay Medical Help: Minor illnesses can turn into serious issues if ignored. Don’t “wait it out” — get evaluated if you feel sick for more than a few days.
If you're feeling unwell at school, visit your campus health center or a nearby urgent care. At Portland Urgent Care in the Hollywood District, we provide prompt and compassionate care tailored to the needs of students. Whether you're dealing with a sore throat, fever, or an injury, we’re here to help.
We accept most major insurance providers and offer low-cost healthcare services for uninsured students. Our clinic supports students from PSU, Reed College, Lewis & Clark, and more.
Student-Friendly Services Include:
Many students are navigating the healthcare system for the first time. That’s why we prioritize clear communication, affordability, and empathetic care. Our providers understand how tough it can be to juggle academics while feeling sick or hurt — we’re here to get you back on your feet.
Helpful FAQs for Sick College Students:
Getting sick in college doesn’t have to be scary or overwhelming. With the right preparation and a trusted healthcare provider nearby, you can manage your health confidently. If you're attending school in Portland and find yourself under the weather, come visit Portland Urgent Care — we’re here when you need us.
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