25/06/2021
*TO***CO AND COVID-19*
*As a smoker, am I likely to get more severe symptoms if infected?* 😵
Smoking harms your lungs making it more difficult for your body to fight off the viruses. Smokers are at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 outcomes and death.
*As a vaper, am I more likely to be infected or to have more severe symptoms if infected?* 🌬️
The COVID-19 virus affects the respiratory tract. The hand-to-mouth action of e-cigarette use may increase the risk of infection.
*What about using smokeless to***co, like chewing to***co?* 👄
The virus can be spread from hand to mouth, and also when the user spits out saliva produced when chewing."
*What should I do if I already use to***co?* 🚬
WHO recommends quitting to***co. Quitting will reduce your risk of developing COVID-19 symptoms if you are infected with the virus. Quitting will help your lungs and heart to work better from the moment you stop.
*What can I do to protect people from the risks associated with smoking, smokeless to***co use and va**ng?*
• If you smoke, use e-cigarettes or use smokeless to***co - now is a good time to quit completely!
• Do not share devices like waterpipes and e-cigarettes.
• Protect others from the harms of second-hand smoke.
• Spread the word about the risks of smoking, using e-cigarettes and using smokeless to***co
