Despite a French study suggesting smokers may have less risk of contracting the virus, the WHO said there is 'currently insufficient information' to confirm it.
With Level 4 lockdown in place and the sale of cigarettes prohibited, smokers have not had to search long and hard for a fix, as supply has been made available on the black market, it appears. Image: iStock
This came despite strident calls for cigarette sales to be permitted, and that the ban contributes to a growing tobacco black market in South Africa. Health Minister Zweli Mkhize previously said the country followed the World Health Organisation’s advice with regard to implementing and lifting lockdown regulations.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma previously said the country banned the sale of tobacco because, when people share cigarettes and put their saliva on the paper, it increases the risk of Covid-19 infection. Oxygen circulation in the body improves roughly two weeks after an individual quits smoking, and overall lung function also increases, Health24 reported.
“WHO urges researchers, scientists and the media to be cautious about amplifying unproven claims that tobacco or nicotine could reduce the risk of Covid-19,” the organisation said in a statement.
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