👉 The term "viking infection" is not a standard medical or historical term, but it can be understood as a colloquial or metaphorical description of the impact of Viking invasions and interactions on the health and populations they encountered. Historically, Vikings were known for their raids and settlements across Europe, particularly in the 8th to 11th centuries. These activities often led to the spread of diseases such as the bubonic plague, smallpox, and other infectious diseases. The close contact between Viking settlers and indigenous populations, as well as the movement of people and goods along trade routes, facilitated the transmission of pathogens. Additionally, the Vikings' own health practices, including their use of certain medicinal plants, might have had mixed effects on disease spread. This period saw significant demographic shifts and health challenges for both the Vikings and the regions they invaded.