While fighting infected enemies, traversing the islands, or walking through contaminated areas (like spore puddles or slug tracks), your character accumulates spores—this is displayed with a yellow icon above your character's head.

Once the yellow spore bar fills up completely, it triggers intoxication (marked by a red bar).

In this state:

- Your character starts coughing and losing health over time

- Equipment breaks faster

- Coughing can interrupt actions, making combat and looting more difficult

To stay safe, avoid spore sources and consider using protective gear or items that help clear spores