A Doctor Warns that Vaping Could Be Even More Dangerous in the COVID-19 Era

The COVID-19 pandemic presents unique population health risks. Within the adolescent and millennial population, increased risk of pulmonary side effects from a COVID-19 infection could be exacerbated with the use of electronic cigarettes and vaping liquids, especially those containing THC and originating in the black market. The recent epidemic of e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury (EVALI) highlights the important epidemiological morbidity and mortality risks of vaping should this population contract COVID-19 and become symptomatic. Enhanced public health communication and patient education, combined with cessation strategies, are important to mitigate this comorbid risk during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Will Harrill MD, FACS

Carolina Ear Nose & Throat Sinus and Allergy Center, PA
Clinical Associate, Department of Otolaryngology, Wake Forest Baptist Health
Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology, UNC School of Medicine
Co-Chair, NC Otolaryngology Health Policy Advisory Committee