The Possibility Of "Flurona" And What Two Viruses Can Do At Once

Though there are some mechanisms that prevent people from contracting two viruses at the same time, scientists say that the flu season could cause an increase in influenza and coronavirus co-infections — also called "flurona."

By Sam Walters
Oct 18, 2022 3:30 PMOct 18, 2022 3:26 PM
Virus
(Credit: Christina Krivonos/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

With winter approaching and a potentially severe flu season setting in, scientists are talking about the possibility of a "twindemic" of influenza and COVID-19. Adding more pressure to an already stressed medical apparatus, scientists say that the surge of the two conditions could also cause an increase in the occurrence of "flurona," a fearsome co-infection of flu and coronavirus at the same time.

Though some scientists stress that most people possess innate protections that moderate their chances of catching co-infections of flu and COVID-19, others say that these fortifications aren't perfectly foolproof. So, what — specifically — are these protections, and can we count on them to counter future cases of "flurona?"

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.