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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Matthew Dresch

Brits 'putting themselves at greater risk from coronavirus' by drinking alcohol

Brits are putting themselves at greater risk from coronavirus by drinking alcohol, health chiefs say.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged people to stay away from booze and tobacco while in self-isolation.

Brits are also being encouraged to take up online classes, walk in the park - at a safe distance from others, and dance to music.

Drinking too much alcohol can lower your immune system, making you more vulnerable to the disease.

A strong immune system is key to fighting off the virus, according to experts.

The alcohol misuse charity We Are With You has warned that new coronavirus lockdown laws may result in a spike in drinking.

Do you have a coronavirus story? Email webnews@mirror.co.uk

The World Health Organization is advising against drinking booze and smoking (stock image) (Getty Images/Tetra images RF)

According to the Daily Telegraph, Hans Henri Kluge, Regional Director for WHO in Europe, said: "It is becoming clear that the healthier you were before the pandemic plays a crucial role. People who age healthily are less at risk.

"For those in self-quarantine or working from home, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle with good nutrition, physical activity and staying away from tobacco and alcohol."

The WHO also advised people to stand up for at least three minutes every hour and to complete a goal every day, such as 30 minutes of activity.

Laura Blunt, acting chief executive of We Are With You, said social isolation can lead people to drink more heavily.

She added that people may also turn to booze as a way to deal with anxiety caused by the pandemic.

Some eight in 10 coronavirus deaths have happened to people with at least one illness.

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