The coronavirus pandemic is at its peak, and citizens across the US are resorting to alcohol consumption while they are stuck at home. The recent increase in alcohol across the nation, especially in the state of Arizona strengthens the fact.
However, the WHO reckons that alcohol consumption might put one at an increased risk of picking up the coronavirus, as alcohol reduces immunity and triggers behaviours that pose the risk of contracting the virus. While alcohol acts as a disinfectant on certain surfaces, excessive consumption reduces body immunity.
As per a 2015 study, too much alcohol consumption exposes the human body to various adverse immune-related health effects such as susceptibility to pneumonia.
In a recently published report, the WHO stated, “Alcohol compromises the body’s immune system and increases the risk of adverse health outcomes“Therefore, people should minimize their alcohol consumption at any time, and particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
This has basically drawn lines on the rumoured public belief that alcohol is a means to stay safe from the coronavirus. Recently, as many as 44 people died in Iran due to excessive alcohol intake in a quest to suppress the coronavirus.
In its report, the WHO clarified that alcohol consumption does not kill the coronavirus inside the human body. Moreover, it might lead to a violent mindset amid self-isolation, along with greater chances of mental health issues, which in turn affects one’s immunity power.
The report concludes, “Existing rules and regulations to protect health and reduce the harm caused by alcohol, such as restricting access, should be upheld and even reinforced during the COVID-19 pandemic and emergency situations; while any relaxation of regulations or their enforcement should be avoided. This needs to be complemented by communicating with the public about the risks of alcohol consumption and maintaining and strengthening alcohol and drug services.”
