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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."

BySam Walters
Credit: Christina Krivonos/Shutterstock

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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?"

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

Several viruses can circulate simultaneously. In fact, common colds, influenzas and other illnesses — including coronaviruses — are all more common ...

  • Sam Walters

    Sam Walters is the associate editor at Discover Magazine who writes and edits articles covering topics like archaeology, paleontology, ecology, and evolution, and manages a few print magazine sections.

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