What Is A "Twindemic," And Why Should We Worry About It Going Into Flu Season?

With flu season approaching, the threat of COVID-19 and the flu combining is a possibility, giving it the name of "twindemic."

By Sam Walters
Oct 11, 2022 2:15 PMOct 11, 2022 2:29 PM
Shots
(Credit: Mongkolchon Akesin/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

In the two-and-a-half years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the flu has remained relatively inactive in the U.S. That said, the seasonal influenza won't lay low forever. In fact, scientists suspect that the flu is likely to flare up into something serious this fall and winter, increasing the possibility of a so-called "twindemic," or a simultaneous surge in cases of COVID-19 and influenza.

Here's what you'll want to know about this possibility.

What's a "Twindemic?"

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
Shop Now
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.