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Dimapur June 10 (EMN): District Hospital, Phek conducted a sensitisation programme on Covid-19 for NGOs and civil societies of Phek town on June 7.
Speaking at the programme, Dr.Nichukholie Vupru, nodal officer of the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP) Phek, said using of tobacco products such as gutkha, pan and other tobacco related products add to the spread of Covid-19 as it increases the production of saliva, which leads to increase spitting in public places.
He also said that large gathering at the retail outlets for procurement of tobacco products pose the risk for spread of Covid-19. Smokers have greater chance of transmission of virus from hand to the mouth due to frequent lip touching, also weakens the immune system and makes the lungs more vulnerable to the virus, he added.
The District Tobacco Control Cell has also distributed leaflets on the hazards of tobacco use and Covid-19 to the quarantine centres and to the public. Banners are also put up at the quarantine centres.