What does tobacco use have to do with COVID-19?

Tobacco users may be at increased risk of getting infected with the coronavirus. Some characteristics of tobacco use make it hard to follow current recommendations on how to prevent COVID-19 such as not touching your face or maintaining social distance. The use of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, increases risk of complications from respiratory infections, including COVID-19. To protect yourself and others, limit your exposure to tobacco smoke – anyone exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke may be similarly vulnerable to COVID-19 as tobacco users.

Life during the pandemic is stressful, using tobacco doesn’t help. Smoking or using e-cigarettes isn’t a long-term stress reliever. Nicotine addiction causes stress. Craving for nicotine feels stressful because your body begins to go through withdrawal. Quitting smoking isn’t easy, but it is possible. For FREE help quitting, call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669).

For more information about COVID-19, stress, and tobacco visit tobaccofreelancastercounty.org.

Health Department Slides