By Hamilton Nwosa( Head, The New Diplomat’s Business and Data tracking desk)/Agency Report
The World Health Organization (WHO) has cautioned that smoking can potentially increase ones chances of contracting the novel covid-19.
In a tweet on its verified handle, the WHO on Wednesday explained that experts have said smokers with COVID-19 are likely to have more serious complications that could lead to death.
“Smoking damages your lungs and other parts of your body, and it makes you more vulnerable to #COVID19 infection,” the organization tweeted.
It added: “It is the right time to No smoking symbol quit smoking for a safer and better health.
“The tobacco industry is creating controversy & confusion about the risk of nicotine & tobacco product use and #COVID19.
“FACT: Health experts have warned that smokers with COVID-19 likely suffer more serious conditions that could lead to premature death.”
It claimed that “Tobacco lobbyists have tried to manipulate #COVID19 policy-making to get tobacco shops listed as ‘essential’ & offer free delivery of tobacco products to people in quarantine.
“Smokers likely face more severe symptoms if infected, leading to hospitalizations & premature deaths.”
