51 Questions and Answers on COVID-19 by AKANKSHA Jayant Ahirrao

Mortality for COVID-19 appears higher than for influenza, especially seasonal
influenza. While the true mortality of COVID-19 will take some time to fully
understand, the data we have so far indicate that the crude mortality ratio (the
number of reported deaths divided by the reported cases) is between 3-4%, the
infection mortality rate (the number of reported deaths divided by the number
of infections) will be lower. For seasonal influenza, mortality is usually well
below 0.1%. However, mortality is to a large extent determined by access to and
quality of health care.
49) What medical interventions are available for COVID-19 and influenza
viruses?
While there are a number of therapeutics currently in clinical trials in China and
more than 20 vaccines in development for COVID-19, there are currently no
licensed vaccines or therapeutics for COVID-19. In contrast, antivirals and
vaccines available for influenza. While the influenza vaccine is not effective
against COVID-19 virus, it is highly recommended to get vaccinated each year to
prevent influenza infection.
Are smokers and tobacco users at higher risk of COVID-19 infection?
50) Are smokers and tobacco users at higher risk of COVID-19 infection?
Smokers are likely to be more vulnerable to COVID-19 as the act of smoking
means that fingers (and possibly contaminated cigarettes) are in contact with
lips which increases the possibility of transmission of virus from hand to mouth.
Smokers may also already have lung disease or reduced lung capacity which
would greatly increase risk of serious illness.
Smoking products such as water pipes often involve the sharing of mouth pieces
and hoses, which could facilitate the transmission of COVID-19 in communal and
social settings.
Conditions that increase oxygen needs or reduce the ability of the body to use it
properly will put patients at higher risk of serious lung conditions such as
pneumonia.