The South African Drug Policy Initiative has called on the government to repeal the ban on the sale of alcohol and tobacco during the country’s national lockdown.
The association, which advocates for the legal regulation of all drugs and for rational drug laws to reduce drug-related harms says the authorities have erred in banning its sale.
SADPI spokesperson, Keith Scott, says although the decision was made with the best intentions, it fails to adequately consider the harms its enforcement may cause to vulnerable individuals who may suffer from substance use disorders.
He says many users are unable to simply stop using these substances thus putting them at risk of developing a range of withdrawal symptoms.
Scott says it’s banning is further problematic because people with drug use disorders may now have to break the law by acquiring these goods from illegal drug sources.
Meanwhile, the Heart and Stroke foundation urged people, who stockpiled on alcohol before the lockdown, to use it sensibly and in moderation.
A Spokesperson Lumka Mangena says people may now drink out of sheer boredom or frustration.
He says alcohol abuse and binge drinking are known risk factors for heart disease and stroke, but can equally affect immunity, particularly relating to lung health.
Mangena says the dampening effect of alcohol on immunity is most pronounced with chronic heavy drinking, but acute binge drinking can make the lungs more susceptible to pathogens like viruses and bacteria too.
Smoking and unhygienic practices are also examples of behaviours that lead to worse health outcomes.
Mangena says given this scenario, it is important to follow the law and public health measures that our Government has put in place to prevent COVID-19 transmission, to protect you and your family, as well as fellow South Africans.
