The FDA is working to address the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak and keep you and your family informed on the latest developments. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions from consumers about preventing COVID-19, smoking, and vaping and e-cigarettes. Q: How can I prevent COVID-19? A: The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases. They include: - Wash your hands often with plain soap and water. The CDC recommends washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, the CDC recommends using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Learn more about safely using hand sanitizer.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering or non-surgical mask when around others. The CDC recommends that people wear masks in public settings, at events and gatherings, and anywhere they will be around other people. Effective Feb. 2, 2021, masks are required on planes, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs, such as airports and stations. Find more information about how to select, wear, and clean your mask.
- Avoid crowds and practice social distancing (stay at least 6 feet apart from others).
- Get the COVID-19 vaccine when it is offered to you.
Q: Am I at risk for serious complications from COVID-19 if I smoke cigarettes? A: Yes. Data shows that when compared to never smokers, cigarette smoking increases the risk of more severe illness from COVID-19, which could result in hospitalization, the need for intensive care, or even death. Smoking cigarettes can cause inflammation and cell damage throughout the body, and can weaken your immune system, making you less able to fight off disease. There's never been a better time to quit smoking. If you need resources to help you quit smoking, the FDA's Every Try Counts campaign has supportive tips and tools to help you get closer to quitting for good. Q: If I vape tobacco or nicotine, am I at risk for complications from COVID-19? A: E-cigarette use can expose the lungs to toxic chemicals, but whether those exposures increase the risk of COVID-19 or the severity of COVID-19 outcomes is not known. However, many e-cigarette users are current or former smokers, and cigarette smoking increases the risk of respiratory infections, including pneumonia. For the latest information about COVID-19, visit: |
No comments:
Post a Comment