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Busting Myths About Alcohol and Coronavirus
The World Health Organization issues a warning about booze
The pandemic may have shut down bars and restaurants, but it hasn’t slowed the nation’s appetite for alcohol. Sales of beer, wine, and liquor are surging, reports Vox; so much so that clinical psychologists at the University of Southern California have expressed concerns about alcohol overconsumption, abuse, and negative effects on immunity, which could make people more vulnerable to Covid-19.
The World Health Organization also cautioned against alcohol use in an update to its website posted Tuesday. It too highlighted well-known public health concerns about alcohol consumption, like the increased risk of injury and violence, especially domestic violence, and the potential for alcohol poisoning. It also pointed out some health risks that are more specific to drinking during the Covid-19 pandemic, warning that consuming alcohol “can exacerbate health vulnerability, risk-taking behaviours, mental health issues and violence.” Drinking alcohol compromises the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infection.
A major part of the update was dedicated to misinformation surrounding alcohol consumption and protection from Covid-19:
