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While evidence on vaping and COVID-19 infection risk is very limited, two studies report that
COVID-19 diagnosis was more likely among individuals who vape, suggesting that they are at a
higher risk of COVID-19 infection.
There is evidence that vaping impacts lung function, thereby increasing the risk of COVID-19
infection and/or severity of COVID-19 outcomes.
The negative impacts of tobacco smoke on
respiratory and overall health is well-documented. Individuals who vape and smoke tobacco
cigarettes (dual use) may have an elevated risk due to continued exposure to burnt tobacco.
Use of vaping products may also pose an increased risk of COVID-19 infection through frequent
hand-to-mouth contact and using these devices in social settings or sharing with others. More
research is needed in this area.
Experts comment that aerosols generated by vaping products could be involved in the
transmission of the virus when individuals are in close proximity of others who have been
diagnosed with COVID-19 and are vaping.
The World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledges that the hand-to-mouth action of vaping
may increase the risk of infection.
Additionally, the British Columbia (BC) Centre for Disease
Control recommends staying two metres away from others and vaping outside to reduce the risk
of infection. Due to the higher risk of complications of COVID-19 among individuals who vape,
they recommend reducing or quitting vaping to lessen the risk.