How germ-prone is Lakeland?

According to Soliant Health, Lakeland ranks low on its list of cities most likely to get sick, and there are precautions you can take this flu season.

An exterior view of Lakeland Regional Medical Center with a glass building, brick building, and a grassy median with a fountain.

Seasonal sickness could mean a trip to the doctor’s office.

Photo by LALtoday

What season are we in? Some folks will say autumn, football season, or we’re entering the holiday season — but it’s also flu season.

The good news: Lakeland ranked No. 83 on Soliant Health’s list of the most germ-prone cities in the US. The study assessed the country’s 100 most populous cities, and lower rankings are better.

The research used metrics like local air quality and allergens. If these factors impact you, stay prepared with AccuWeather’s allergy forecast + air quality index.

The number of respiratory illnesses also played a major role in the rankings. These ailments typically increase with holiday gatherings, but there are local resources to help you take precautions:

  • Florida Department of Health’s Lakeland Clinic offers appointments and information for various healthcare concerns, including immunizations.
  • If you feel sick, see a doctor. Lakeland Regional Health has walk-in + urgent care facilities.
  • Check Flustar’s map for daily cold, flu, and COVID-19 reports.
More from LALtoday
We’ve got the ultimate list of Lakeland events you don’t want to miss out on each year. Mark your calendar for these community celebrations.
Shaken or stirred? Either one works, as long as it’s zero-proof. Check out this list of alcohol-free cocktails — mocktails — in Swan City.
Learn how artists Gillian Fazio and Katerina Santos plan to drench Lakeland in color through its first-ever mural festival, and how small businesses + muralists can get in on the artistic action.
Prep for the convention with events, guests, and exhibitions we wouldn’t miss.
With a Victorian vibe and shaved snow desserts, Vampire Penguin could become your newest downtown haunt.
Whether you’re looking for your next leisure read, a book for the whole family, or a thrilling fictional novel, we’ve got a list of books written by local authors in Lakeland.
We hear readers’ hopes for future Lakeland eateries all the time. Now, we’re compiling them all into a restaurant wishlist to see which foodie dreams come true.
From improving quality of life to wins for local businesses, find out how Lakeland measured up in last year’s rankings.
Avelo Airlines announced plans for two additional aircraft at its Lakeland International Airport base, as well as more flights on its schedule.
Create the city you want to live in by applying to serve in these volunteer roles.