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2 min read

COVID-19 Smoking & Vaping May Increase Risk

There has never been a better time for smokers to quit and for individuals to protect their health by avoiding use of Under our current health climate, prioritizing your health is incredibly important.

You can protect your health and your future by quitting your smoking habit and avoiding the use of all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.

What we know: There is conclusive evidence that smoking weakens the immune system, increases the risk of infectious diseases and respiratory infections, and is a major cause of chronic health conditions and cancer. 

What we’re learning: There is growing evidence that e-cigarette use (vaping) causes lung injury and health complications.

The risk: Because COVID-19 attacks the lungs, people who smoke commercial tobacco products or vape are under serious threat of worsened symptoms and illness.

Read more from national sources:

The CDC continues to monitor COVID-19 and its variants. Some people are more likely than others to become severely ill including older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions—such as chronic lung disease, moderate to severe asthma or those who have weakened immune systems (such as smokers)—could be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective—protecting you from getting the virus, spreading the virus, and getting sick if you do. CDC recommends everyone ages 18 and older get a booster shot.

As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, the CDC is the go-to resource for more information on at-risk populations

 

RESOURCES TO QUIT SMOKING OR VAPING

As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, adults to stop using all tobacco products—including e-cigarettes—to protect their health. 

This is especially true given the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data that reports 31.4% of COVID-19 2021 hospitalizations in the US were young adult patients between 18-49 years old.

SD QuitLine

The SD QuitLine is still running at full capacity while navigating COVID-19. They are able to service all South Dakotans 13+ who want help quitting cigarettes, chew, or vape.

Need help figuring out which option is best for you? Call the QuitLine at 1-866-SD-QUITS.

SmokefreeTXT

SmokefreeTXT is a mobile text messaging service that is also an option for those practicing self-isolation or self-quarantine during COVID-19. The program provides 24/7 encouragement, advice, and tips to help smokers quit smoking and stay quit.

  • Enroll online: smokefree.gov 
  • Enroll by phone: text the word QUIT to 47848 from your mobile phone, answer a few questions, and you’ll start receiving messages

This is Quitting

This is Quitting gives youth and young adults the motivation and support they need to ditch JUUL and other e-cigarettes.

  • Enroll online: truthinitiative.org
  • Enroll by phone: text DITCHJUUL to 88709. You’ll receive one message per day. You can also text COPE, STRESS, SLIP or MORE to receive instant support.