How Winter Weather Increases Flu Risk and How to Stay Safe

As the latest snowfall hits Ontario, with up to 40cm of snow expected, and temperatures dropping, you know as well as I that us Canadians are more than prepared, with shovels, plows, and salt all in place to keep the snow and ice at bay. Preparedness is key. But staying prepared doesn’t just end with the snow; this year's flu season is already one of the worst in a long time. The colder weather only exasperates positive cases and isn’t something to be caught unprepared for either.

Why Cold Weather Increases Flu and COVID Spread 

Now the wintry weather itself doesn’t necessarily cause illness, but the colder weather helps create the perfect environment for viruses to spread more efficiently. Respiratory viruses like Flu A/B and Covid have an easier time stabilizing colder temperatures and survive far longer in the air and on surfaces during winter months. The cold and dry air weakens the body’s natural defenses, drying out the nasal passages and throat, which are key barriers against viruses. 

Snowy conditions also play a big role, while we’re quite efficient at clearing up snow, there’s only so much that can be done, and it isn’t uncommon for public transport to end up delayed from the snowfall, and when that’s during rush hour, it means prolonged exposure in small, stuffy indoor spaces, crowded together with fellow commuters. This situation increases the risk of exposure to respiratory viruses. 

Why a KN95 Mask and WELLlife Flu A/B & Covid Test Kit Will Keep You Safer 

As I said earlier, preparedness is key, and there are incredibly simple measures you can take to help keep yourself safer in cold, snowy conditions. One easy option is to wear a KN95 or a N95 Made in Canada respirator face mask, these are designed to filter a minimum of 95% of airborne respirators, and with a snug seal and comfortable fit, they’re a perfect ally for the stuffy morning commute to work, so even if you’re bunched up, you’re still safe, and as a bonus, they might help keep some of the chill off your face as well.  

Another choice available to you is to have a test kit available to you. If you’ve had a busy day, bumping shoulders on the bus, and gathering around tables with co-workers, it may give you some peace of mind knowing you have access to a test kit at home, or even in the office. I would recommend the WELLlife 3-in-1 Flu A/B & Covid Combo Test Kit. Given Flu A/B and Covid have symptoms in common, such as coughing, and fever. Having a test kit that can pinpoint which symptoms you have ensures you’re acting on the right illness, and with results available in just 10 minutes, you won’t be left waiting. 

So just as you would wrap up warm to keep the cold at bay, having a KN95 mask, and WELLlife Flu A/B & Covid test kit available helps you stay prepared throughout the cold months and beyond. A little preparation can make a big difference to staying happy and healthy this winter.