The myths are prevalent enough, and potentially damaging enough, that the World Health Organization (WHO) released a six-page missive on the topic of alcohol consumption and COVID-19. One-quarter of Canadians aged 35 to 54, and one-fifth aged 18 to 34 say they have increased their alcohol consumption, while 10 per cent over 54 report more frequent drinking. Alcohol consumption has soared in many parts of the world — and the uptick has some experts concerned that misinformation is playing a role. As other health authorities have similarly emphasized, drinking alcohol can actually weaken the immune system, making you more vulnerable to illness. “At times of lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, alcohol consumption can exacerbate health vulnerability, risk-taking behaviours, mental health issues and violence,” it said.

Source: National Post April 27, 2020 17:48 UTC