Covid-19
WHO and scientists back SA’s ban on tobacco sales
Kicking the smoking habit shortly before Covid-19 infection is still a benefit, says the WHO’s representative in SA, Owen Kalua
The World Health Organisation (WHO) as well as several research and civil society organisations have thrown their weight behind the government’s continued ban on tobacco sales as it begins to relax the lockdown, saying the prohibition would reduce the number of severe cases of Covid-19 and lessen the load on the health system.
SA is among a tiny minority of countries that have imposed a ban on tobacco sales as part of its efforts to manage its Covid-19 epidemic, which has affected at least 6,000 people and killed more than 100. India and Botswana have also banned the sale of tobacco products, and several other countries are considering following suit, according to the non-profit National Council Against Smoking (NCAS)...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.