The dropping temperature and falling leaves mean winter — and the cold and flu season — is right around the corner, but doctors say taking precautions can limit illness.

Norman physician Dr. Shelley A. Bohn said students should consider getting immunized as flu season nears. Flu season lasts between November and March, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Every college student should receive a flu shot because they are in such close proximity with one another,” Bohn said.

The required immunizations for college students are for diphtheria and tetanus, as well as one for meningitis. OU Health Services provides these immunizations, as well as flu shots, allergy injections and travel immunizations.

Many students visit a doctor only when they fell sick, but doctors recommend at least two regular checkups per year, said Maggie Pool, RN and Health Promotion Coordinator for OU Health Services.

“A physical examination for an adult consists of routine blood work, checking for anemia, as well as immunizations,” Bohn said.

Doctors also recommend students get their cholesterol levels checked twice a year, and get a blood pressure screening once a year, Pool said.

Appointments for checkups and physicals can be scheduled 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Walk-ins are also welcome.

“I decided to go to Goddard because there was no wait, and I could set up an appointment,” University College freshman Alex Sherman said.

Pool said students should not neglect their bodies or their teeth, and recommends students visit both the doctor and the dentist.

“One or two cleanings and checkups are needed a year,” she said.

Bohn also said vitamins can be taken daily to prevent sickness and to build up the immune system. She recommends daily vitamins with folic acid for females.

If all else fails and a student ends up feeling ill, Pool recommends they treat their symptoms with over-the-counter medication. She also recommends people cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing and stay at home from work or school to avoid spreading the illness.