How the Coronavirus affects the Vaping Community?
Article written in association with Newvaping.com
It is hard to know what effect the Coronavirus has had on the UK Vaping community, apart from the attention grabbing headlines created by the anti-vaping groups, about how they think that vaping increases your risk of catching the virus. But with no real facts to back it up. I know of a couple of people, who have sadly given up vaping due to the scare tactics used.
We know that vaping is a much more healthy option than smoking, So in theory, someone that gave up smoking, through vaping is going to be in a better position health wise, than a 20 a day smoker. But i think there is so much that we don't know about this virus it is hard to say.
Although there is zero evidence on how vaping and e-cigarette use affects coronavirus infectivity or makes you more likely to catch it. On the other hand, there is a growing amount evidence that PG, propylene glycol (one of the main ingredients in e-liquid) has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties when vaporised. [Henle W, Zellat J. Effect of propylene glycol aerosol on air-borne virus of Influenza. Proc Soc Exper Biol Med 1941;48:544.]
When it comes to the Vaping UK population i believe they have definitely found it harder to maintain the vaping habit during the lockdown period, than their smoking counter parts. Who can walk into any shop or petrol station during the lockdown and pick up a packet of fags, Where a the vapors in the UK have had to watch there local Vape Stores close, As they got included in the list of non-essential shops that have been forced to close during the Government lockdown period, Although many Vape Store owners raised the issue with their local MP, that to their customers, they are an essential business, the forced closure took place. leaving vapor panicked as to where they would be able to buy the vape juice and supplies.
Most local vape shops have had to quickly move their vape business fully online, to allow their customers to continue to purchase their products. Although they have seen a rapid overnight growth in their online business, most of them are reporting that their overall turnover is down compared with the normal shop takings. Which leads me to think that some of their newer vaping customers had taken the easier option and reached for the fags.
I dread to think how many people over this period have slipped into their old habits, and given up on vaping, due to limited supply, and not being able to call into their local vape shop, for not only buying their ejuice but for the ongoing support. Because as we know vaping is much more than just buying a mod and some ejuice, it is more about the community that surrounds it, the people you meet, and the places you go. Which i don't think you can ever replace, with it all going online. Hopefully once the lock down is over, and the vape shops reopen, the community will reunite.
Finishing on a positive note, I think that the Coronavirus has also brought with it an overall increase in the total number of vapors, as people decide to make the move to a healthier lifestyle. Quitting cigarettes and taking part in an hour's worth of exercise every day. As recommended as part of the Government plan. Which can only be a good thing.