Texas Cities Rank High on the List of Places You’re Most Likely to Get Sick 

If it feels like everyone around you has been coughing, sneezing, or sniffling lately, you’re not imagining things—especially if you live in Texas.

Researchers at Marian University in Indianapolis conducted a study ranking 100 U.S. cities based on where you're most and least likely to catch a cold, and let’s just say, Texas didn’t come out looking too great.

Texas: A Hotspot for Colds?

The study looked at weather conditions, air quality, vaccination rates, population density, and even the number of kids in each city (because let’s be honest, kids are walking germ factories).

Two Texas cities landed in the Top 3 for places where you’re MOST likely to get sick:

✔️McAllen, Texas
✔️El Paso, Texas

Other Texas cities on the list include Houston and Dallas, both ranking higher than expected due to population density and seasonal weather changes that make viruses spread easily. Lubbock didn't crack the Top 100--that's good!

Who’s Staying Healthy?

If you’re looking for places where people are least likely to catch a cold, you might want to move to North Carolina or Florida. The study found the least sick cities to be:

✔️ Wilmington, North Carolina
✔️ Honolulu, Hawaii
✔️ Tampa, Florida

These cities boast warmer weather, better air quality, and lower population density, making them less prone to seasonal viruses.

How Are You Holding Up?

While Lubbock, Texas, wasn't specifically highlighted in the study, it's essential for residents to remain vigilant, especially during peak cold seasons. Regardless of location, maintaining good hygiene practices, staying active, ensuring proper nutrition, and getting vaccinated are universal steps to reduce the risk of catching a cold.

For a comprehensive look at the study and to see where other cities rank, visit Marian University's official publication.