Is the Fog Making People Sick? Science, Weather, and a Viral Winter Myth  episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 12, 2026 · 31 MIN

Is the Fog Making People Sick? Science, Weather, and a Viral Winter Myth

from Meteorology Matters

Fog is back and so are the claims.In Florida and across the southern U.S., people are reporting headaches, breathing issues, infections, and other illnesses during foggy weather, with some blaming “toxic fog,” chemical exposure, or government interference.So what’s really going on?In this episode, meteorologist Rob Jones explains what fog actually does to the human body, why symptoms like sinus pressure and headaches can occur, and why these fears resurface every winter — often lining up with flu season and stagnant air patterns.We separate science from speculation, break down what fog can and cannot do, and explain why social media keeps turning normal winter weather into a viral health scare.If you’ve ever wondered whether fog made you sick, this episode gives you real answers.00:00 Is the fog making people sick?02:10 Why fog is more common in winter05:15 What fog can do to your sinuses and airways08:50 Fog vs viruses and infections13:10 Why this myth comes back every year18:45 Final takeaway

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Is the Fog Making People Sick? Science, Weather, and a Viral Winter Myth

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How long is this episode of Meteorology Matters?

This episode is 31 minutes long.

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This episode was published on January 12, 2026.

What is this episode about?

Fog is back and so are the claims.In Florida and across the southern U.S., people are reporting headaches, breathing issues, infections, and other illnesses during foggy weather, with some blaming “toxic fog,” chemical exposure, or government...

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