Experts have recently predicted that COVID-19 will become seasonal, similar to the flu. With all the pain that the pandemic has caused us, can that really happen? And why do viruses become more severe during the winter months in the first place?

Our AFC Urgent Care Easley ream shares some helpful answers below, so keep reading!

Do Viruses Become More Contagious in the Winter?

Yes and no. While a virus’ symptoms don’t typically get worse during the winter, they become more prevalent, due to cold weather creating an ideal habitat for them to thrive. Viruses are detected throughout the year in the United States, but the CDC has observed that viruses like the flu peak between December and February.

COVID-19 can also be added to this list. The coronavirus responsible for COVID-19, like the flu, is an enveloped virus, meaning it has an exterior fatty or lipid layer that preserves the virus’s structural integrity while also allowing it to replicate and cause new infections. There are a few other reasons why viruses cause more damage during the winter months, and we’ve listed them below.

Additional Causes of More Winter Viral Activity

• Spending more time indoors. During the winter, people spend more time indoors with the windows shut, making them more likely to breathe the same air as an infectious person.
• Colder, drier air. The flu and COVID-19 may be able to infect more people in colder, drier settings because they can survive longer.
• Less sunlight and shorter days. We acquire less vitamin D and melatonin when we get less sunlight, which are both important in battling viruses and illnesses.

What Can I Do to Stay Healthy in the Winter?

The best thing you can do is get vaccinated! Because the flu and COVID-19 are the illnesses that inflict the most damage throughout the winter, if you haven’t already, please consider being vaccinated against both.

Other ways to stay healthy are listed below.

Additional Ways to Stay Healthy This Winter

• Wear a mask. Masks are a simple way to protect yourself and others from the virus by preventing respiratory droplets from spreading.
• Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly. Frequent handwashing helps protect against a variety of illnesses, including the flu and COVID-19.
• Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs are less likely to enter your body if you keep your hands away from your face.
• Avoid people who are sick.
• Don’t share personal items.

We’re here for you now and always! Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC center today if you feel under the weather.