We all know how zombie epidemics start. Some weird virus breaks out and spreads rapidly as the infected undead wander aimlessly amongst unsuspecting civilians. As unrealistic as such scenarios may seem, I am starting to see some disconcerting similarities between George Romero’s twisted fantasies and NIU’s campus.

Every day, I see more and more people, eyes glazed over, walking sluggishly through the halls and uttering out low, guttural sounds.

Are they zombies? Probably not, although I am still wary of what actually goes on in those biochemistry classes.

They are merely flu-ridden students doing their best to keep up with the pressing demands that come with being in college. I understand their plight and I sympathize completely. Sometimes professors have exceptionally-strict attendance policies and one untimely absence can set you back considerably.

At the same time, I am on the verge of breaking down and coming to class in a chemical suit lined with Purell to avoid becoming one of them. Here are some helpful suggestions to consider if you are trying to decide whether you should come to class or not.

“In my opinion, students should stay home from classes when they have fevers, diarrhea or vomiting, or have a productive cough,” said Carolinda Douglass, director of Assessment Services and public health professor. “These symptoms may indicate a contagious condition.”

This is a very important distinction to make. I realize there are many students who use every slight breeze, sniffle, and hangover as a valid excuse to miss class or get paper extensions. Not every affliction warrants blowing off a midterm. I am only writing this for my classmates who insist on testing my immune system while my biology professor insists on testing my knowledge of it.

“In some cases, for example, if a student has strep throat, they may be able to return to class more quickly once they have been on an antibiotic for at least 24 hours. In other cases, where antibiotics are not warranted, they may need to stay home longer,” Douglass said.

If my general well-being, public health and common sense are not enough to keep you from spreading your germs indiscriminately, perhaps you should consider your own health.

“The ill student might contract yet another illness as a result of being in class with a weakened immune system,” Douglass said.

For those who are sick and still dragging themselves to class, I am not sure there is anything that will convince you. However, for the rest of us, there are some preventative measures we can still take.

“Be sure to wash your hands often, get plenty of rest, cover your mouth when you cough, get a flu shot, and don’t come to class when you are ill,” Douglass said.