Baylor Students Faced Fall Respiratory Illnesses

Freshmen at the Waco campus reported more frequent health symptoms than other students during the fall semester.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Allergies

Baylor Students Faced Fall Respiratory Illnesses

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During the 2026 fall semester, Baylor University students in Waco experienced a rise in respiratory illnesses, often referred to as the freshman flu. A 2025 study from the International Honor Society in Psychology confirmed that freshmen frequently report more symptoms than their upperclassman peers.

Why it matters

Students arrive at college with naive immune systems, making them susceptible to new bacterial strains when large groups congregate in close proximity. Seasonal environmental factors, such as grass and weed pollens prevalent in Waco during late summer and early fall, further exacerbate these health issues.

A 2025 study identified a trend of higher symptom reporting among freshmen compared to other students. Individual cases typically involve symptoms lasting for one week, with recovery often requiring up to 12 hours of sleep.

The players

Baylor University

This private Christian university is located in Waco, Texas, and serves as the primary setting for the reported respiratory illnesses.

Baylor Health Services

This campus department manages student medical care, including vaccine distribution and academic support for ill students.

International Honor Society in Psychology

This organization conducts and publishes psychological research, including the 2025 study on student health reporting.

The details

The freshman flu refers to a variety of colds and bugs rather than influenza, often spreading through physical contact with surfaces contaminated by germs. In response, Baylor Health Services provides influenza vaccines at the Baylor Science Building, the Bill Daniel Student Center, and the Louise Herrington School of Nursing.

2025: International Honor Society in Psychology published a study on student health symptoms.
Summer and early fall: Grass and weed pollens increase in the air in Waco.
Fall semester: Respiratory illnesses spread among Baylor University students.

The Big Picture

This report follows the pattern set by the 2025 International Honor Society in Psychology study. It highlights how the transition to campus life creates unique health challenges compared to the general student population.

Students should utilize the Baylor campus pharmacy for over-the-counter medications and contact the Care Team for support if symptoms persist. Vaccinations remain available at designated campus locations to help mitigate the spread of influenza throughout the school year.

The takeaway

Maintaining hygiene and staying updated on campus vaccination schedules can help students manage recurring seasonal illnesses. Students are encouraged to prioritize rest and utilize university support resources when health symptoms arise.