SMOKERS WITH COVID-19 ARE 14 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO SUFFER FROM SEVERE SYMPTOMS

1.3 billion smokers across the globe have been urged to ditch cigarettes as research suggests that they could make COVID-19 symptoms more severe. 

Smokers are more likely to develop severe coronavirus symptoms if they contract the disease, Public Health England (PHE) has stated. In an address to the government, Professor John Newton, Public Health England's director of health, said:

“In light of this unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, there has never been a more important time to stop smoking. Not only for your own health but to protect those around you. It will also help alleviate the huge pressures on the NHS."

Scientists understand that Covid-19 attacks the respiratory system, and it is thought that smoking, which can cause harm to the lungs and air passages, puts people at greater risk. Representatives of PHE have directed people to a “small but highly impactful” Chinese survey which suggests that smokers with coronavirus are 14 times more likely to suffer from severe symptoms. 

The study focuses on patients suffering from Covid-19 induced pneumonia in three hospitals in China, where the virus is suspected to have originated. A “history of smoking” was identified as a factor that contributed to the patient's poor response to the coronavirus.

Prof Newton told smokers that "it is never too late to quit, no matter your age”, adding that the longer you stay smoke-free, the more time your body has to heal. The more short-term effects include:

• after 48 hours carbon monoxide is eliminated from the body. Lungs start to clear out mucus and other smoking debris
  
• after 72 hours breathing becomes easier as bronchial tubes begin to relax
  
• after 2 to 12 weeks blood circulation improves, making physical activity like walking and running easier
  

We have an abundance of fantastic products including, starter kits and e-liquid, that can boost your chances of quitting while under lockdown. Making the switch from smoking to vaping can be a daunting process but we have everything that you need to steer you on the right path. If you would like to know the ins and outs of vaping before making a decision, then have a look at our Ultimate Vaping Starter Guide.