We are in the midst of cold and flu season, and while we can take the necessary precautions to prevent from getting sick, a new study has found that there are certain cities where you are at high risk of catching a cold!

Unfortunately for us in Texas, two cities come in at the top of the list!

According to the Leighton School of Nursing at Marian University in Indiana, their report on the U.S. cities where you're most likely to catch a cold compared 100 cities across the country on 15 different factors that could heighten your chances of getting sick.

Some of the factors include everything from high population density - where crowded spaces could be blamed for virus transmission - to a large population of kids under 14 - since kids may spread viruses more easily - to low vaccination rates and poor air quality.

So, where are we more likely to catch a cold in Texas this year? Bad news for those of us in McAllen and El Paso, Texas! McAllen came in at number two and El Paso at number three!

Of McAllen, Marian University said:

With a significant percentage of its population under 14, an age group more susceptible to colds and likely to spread them more easily. A high percentage of uninsured residents means limited access to healthcare, which can compromise immune health. Additionally, McAllen ranked for higher rates of poor or fair health, frequent physical distress, and physical inactivity.

And of El Paso, Marian University said:

El Paso ranks third due to its low flu vaccination rate, a high percentage of uninsured residents, and a large number of adults reporting poor or fair health — factors that collectively lower overall immunity and limit access to essential medical care.

You can check out the full study here. If you want to avoid the cold this year, wash your hands frequently with soap and water, avoid touching your face, keep your distance from sick individuals and disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly.

By understanding these transmission methods, you can take steps to reduce your risk of catching a cold.