Emerging evidence suggests smoking increases risk of Covid-19 infection: Harsh Vardhan

[](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/emerging-
evidence-suggests-smoking-increases-risk-of-covid-19-infection-harsh-
vardhan/articleshow/77242919.cms)Union health minister Harsh Vardhan on
Wednesday said emerging evidence suggests that smoking increases risk of
contracting Covid-19 as well as worsens the outcome in people infected with
the virus. Speaking at the release of an e-book on tackling substance abuse
and behavioral addiction in the country, Vardhan said alcohol intoxication can
also increase the risk of infection and have other effects, including a
reduction of immunity.