In an effort to prevent the spread of illness on campus, University Health Services (UHS) has turned to the wonders of invisible glitter lotion and black lights to scope out dirty hands.

The Glitter Bug kit, which contains a black light and glitter lotion that is black light sensitive is an essential part of UHS's recent campaign, "Don't Get Caught Dirty Handed."

Several hundred students in Findlay Commons participated in the activity. Students applied the glitter lotion and observed how their hands look under a black light. After careful observation, students were instructed to wash their hands and observe them under the black light to see all the spots their "careful" washing missed.

Yung Vu (senior-biobehavioral health) volunteered not only to complete required class service hours, but because she said she felt the program was very effective.

"Not many people are aware of how important hand washing is," she said.

According to UHS, the hand-washing campaign was proposed to combat the spread of illness on campus after recognizing the large number of students affected by upper respiratory infections (URIs) last semester.

Ellen Nagy, UHS marketing manager, said UHS is in no way "bombarded" by flu cases; on the contrary, flu cases and upper respiratory infections (URI) have been relatively typical for this time of year even after the peak of flu cases UHS saw in mid-January.

Nonetheless, illness is always a pressure for students.

"Even a relatively mild cold can ruin [a student's] schedule," Nagy said.

Since the hand-washing campaign began last semester, Nagy said she has not seen a direct correlation between the new "Don't Get Caught Dirty Handed" campaign and the number of URIs, including cold and flu.

However, she said, officials are confident that the program will decrease the number of student illnesses.

According to the American College Health Association National College Health Assessment conducted on all Penn State campuses in Fall 2004, cold, flu and sore throat, were the second-highest factors affecting academic performance among students, stress being the first.

Academic difficulties and setbacks, such as a class grade of incomplete and course-drops, were influenced by a student's health, Susan Kennedy, UHS associate director of educational services, said.

About 34 percent of Penn State students at University Park reported poor academic performance because of a URI over a 12-month period, she added.

Kennedy said that lack of sleep, stress and poor dietary habits contribute to illness by lowering resistance to germs in the environment.

Although the flu vaccine supply at University Park was depleted by Christmas, UHS can offer students with the flu antiviral medications that can decrease the severity and length of the illness. The medication must be taken within the first 48 hours of infection to be effective.

Students who are unsure of their conditions can visit the "Self Assessment Checklist" at UHS's Web site, www.sa.psu.edu/uhs/healthinformation/selfassess/cold.cfm.