What Is Flurona And Should You Be Worried About It?

Cold weather always brings with it a higher chance of getting sick. Whether it is a common cold, the flu, COVID-19, or any other viral illness, the odds of catching it increase during months when the temperatures drop. One explanation is that viruses simply spread more easily when it's cold. People generally become less active in colder weather, limiting their exposure to vitamin D, and that can lower their immunity. People also have more close contact with others because they are inside, and that gives germs an easy way to spread. In addition, the warmer air indoors creates dry mucous membranes, which makes it easier for viruses to get into your system (via Verywell Health).

Viruses like the flu spread through droplets that linger in the air after you talk, sneeze, or cough. Germs can travel up to 6 feet landing on surfaces or in your nose, mouth, or eyes, according to the Centers for Disease and Prevention. You may even catch the flu and another virus at the same time, like flurona.

Flurona, while not a COVID-19 variant, is the term given to individuals who have been infected with COVID-19 and influenza. While you might not have heard the term before, the instance of becoming infected with both viruses is not surprising to experts. Dr. Dan Barouch, director of the Center for Virology and Vaccine Research at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, told ABC that both viruses "are common, so it is not unexpected that some people would be infected at the same time."

Dr. Jonathan Grein, director of Hospital Epidemiology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, told ABC that while it's not exactly good to be infected with both, "there's no clear indication that this is a particularly bad combination." To reduce your risk of becoming infected with the flu, COVID-19, or flurona, practice safe measures, such as washing your hands, masking up in crowded spaces, and getting vaccinated.