People who smoke are generally at greater risk of the respiratory tract infection being more serious than it would be for someone who does not smoke. However, there is currently not enough evidence to prove that people who smoke are at higher risk of being infected with the coronavirus.
Smoking affects the immune system in the airways, lung tissue and throughout the body and you have a greater risk of the infection lasting longer.
There is growing evidence to suggest that people who smoke are likely to be more severely impacted by COVID-19 if they do become infected. Therefore, public health officials are advising people to reduce their risk of serious lung disease caused by coronavirus by quitting smoking and vaping.
“Quitting smoking is good for your health in so many ways and smokers should see coronavirus as further motivation to give quitting a go to build up their bodies’ defences now before coronavirus becomes widespread in the UK.”
New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said Sunday that smoking or vaping can increase the vulnerability of people suffering a “severe illness” if they are infected by the coronavirus, according to Reuters.
“If you are a smoker or a vaper that does make you more vulnerable,” de Blasio said at a press conference on coronavirus. “If you are a smoker or a vaper this is a very good time to stop that habit and we will help you.”
Studies have previously warned that vaping can cause inflammation of the lungs, which makes it harder to fight off infections. People who are exposed to second-hand smoke are also at increased risk of being affected by respiratory tract infections.
