Reopening of shops and public places with smoking areas in South Africa

To best slow the progression of the COVID-19 virus and prevent worsening of symptoms in patients who smoke, the South African government decided in April 2020 to completely ban the sale of cigarettes and tobacco products in the country.[1]. Recently, to boost economic activity and tourism in the city of Durban, businesses as well as hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues have been allowed to reopen.[2] provided that strict health regulations and protocols are respected.

Establishment of smoking areas under the South African law on the prohibition of smoking in places open to the public

Following the announcement, Suncoast casinos, hotels and entertainment venues in Durban quickly informed their subscribers of their upcoming reopening and specified, via text message, the establishment of designated smoking areas.[3]

According to Lungi Mtshali, the spokesperson for the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, only the sale of cigarettes is prohibited in South Africa, not tobacco consumption. However, creating smoking areas, when smoking in social areas has been banned since 1993, seems questionable.

South Africa, put to the test by the pandemic

Beyond its legal compliance or non-compliance, this decision remains incompatible with the South African government's efforts to slow the spread of the pandemic. Currently, South Africa remains the African country hardest hit by the health crisis. Since March, it has recorded nearly 190,000 cases, and authorities fear this figure will explode further in the coming weeks.[4]

As stated by the World Health Organization (WHO), the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)[5] Smoking is an aggravating factor in coronavirus symptoms, potentially leading to overcrowding in healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, in public places, the virus that attaches to tobacco smoke particles can be inhaled or touched (on furniture, handles, etc.) by customers or employees.[6]

Smoking areas therefore constitute a real and significant risk of contamination and, as such, a complete contradiction with government initiatives.

©Generation Without Tobacco

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[1] CNCT, In South Africa, cigarette companies oppose COVID-19 measures, Tobacco-Free Generation (April 27, 2020 - accessed July 8, 2020). [2] SEHOSSOLO Cédric Lyonnel, South Africa reopens its public spaces, www.africanews.com (July 5, 2020 - accessed July 8, 2020). [3] https://www.iol.co.za/sunday-tribune/news/smoking-allowed-at-durban-casinos-despite-sale-ban-50449274 [4] MOUSSET Laura, Covid-19 in South Africa: surge in infections, army reinforcements, www.france24.com (July 6, 2020 - accessed July 8, 2020). [5] European Society of Cardiology, First comparison of dangers of tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarettes and waterpipes, www.medicalxpress.com (June 26, 2020 - accessed July 8, 2020). [6] DNF, Deconfinement: DNF recommends safety measures adapted to the pandemic crisis to cafe and restaurant owners, Tobacco-Free Generation (June 2, 2020 - accessed July 8, 2020). DNF - For a Zero Tobacco World | ML