Covid & vaping: New Strain Prompts Warning for Northern Ireland Residents
Belfast, Northern Ireland – Health officials are urging vapers in northern Ireland to temporarily cease use as the highly transmissible Stratus (XFG) and Nimbus (NB. 1.8.1) Covid variants rapidly circulate. Experts warn that combining vaping with a Covid infection places additional strain on the lungs, hindering recovery.
While the new variants are not currently indicated to cause more severe illness, their increased transmissibility is leading to a rise in cases and potential for respiratory complications, particularly among those with pre-existing lung conditions or who vape.
Medical professionals have noted a resurgence of familiar covid symptoms like sore throats and hoarse voices, alongside an increase in persistent respiratory issues. “It’s not just about avoiding serious illness,” stated an expert, “It’s about giving your lungs a fair chance to recover. Every puff delays that healing a little bit more.”
Current guidance recommends isolating for at least 5 days if you test positive for Covid, or over, and at least 3 days if you are under 18. Individuals are also advised to inform their employer and avoid contact with those vulnerable to severe illness for 10 days.
Health officials emphasize that even if the effects of vaping seem harmless, it exacerbates the damage caused by the virus. “Think of it this way,” one expert explained, “Your lungs are already fighting off one attacker, which is covid. Don’t give them another opponent in the form of vapour chemicals.even if it feels harmless, it’s like adding fuel to a fire that’s already burning.”
Anyone recently infected with Covid, or experiencing coughing and shortness of breath, is strongly encouraged to stop vaping – even temporarily – to allow lungs to heal. Improved breathing might potentially be noticeable within weeks. “Just because you don’t feel the damage today doesn’t mean it isn’t happening,” a health professional cautioned. “With these new variants spreading, your lungs are working overtime. The best thing you can do for them is stop adding to the strain.”
