Vaping and smoking could increase susceptibility to and severity of COVID-19 – WKOW

MADISON (WKOW) Early evidence from the pandemic suggests that people who use traditional or electronic cigarettes not only increase their likelihood of catching the coronavirus, but also put themselves at higher risk of experiencing more severe forms of COVID-19.

While few research studies have investigated the connection between smoking, vaping and COVID-19, cigarette smoke and vaping aerosol are known to cause lung inflammation and lowered immune function, which are both associated with more severe cases of COVID-19, according to a UW Health news release.

We know that smoking traditional or electronic cigarettes causes significant damage to the lungs, and there is reason to worry that people who smoke or vape will experience much worse outcomes should they be infected with the coronavirus, says Dr. Brian Williams, UW Health hospitalist and researcher at UW Center for Tobacco Research and Intervention (CTRI). We are constantly learning new things about how this virus is attacking the lungs and given what we already know about the toxicity of nicotine and flavored vaping liquids, there is no better time to quit.

With that said, people often use smoking and vaping as a form of stress relief, and Williams and other physicians understand that quitting this habit during a pandemic can seem daunting for some.

However, there are a number of good resources available for people who need help in quitting.

Call 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669)Visit http://www.quitnow.netTeen.Smokefree.govText READY to 200-400

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Vaping and smoking could increase susceptibility to and severity of COVID-19 - WKOW