(New Philadelphia, Ohio) – During a Monday press conference, the Tuscarawas County Health Department issued a vaping warning since Tuscarawas was added to the list of potential counties associated with pulmonary illnesses.
The use of e-cigarettes and other vaping products is raising concerns after 805 lung injury cases have been reported from 46 states, which has resulted in 12 deaths within 10 states.
Health Commissioner Katie Seward explained that no single substance has been linked to all of the lung cases; however, 77% reported using products containing THC and about 57% reported the use of nicotine products.
“The CDC recommends and the Tuscarawas Health Department and New Philadelphia City Health Department ask that you refrain from using e-cigarettes and vaping products, particularly those containing THC.”
In Ohio, 21 cases are being looked into that has an age range of 16 to 59 years old, with a median age at 21.
The main concern for health educators relates to the advertising-driven toward teens with flavorings, the slim design that resembles a USB drive, and the misconception that the e-juices don’t contain nicotine.
According to Tuscarawas County Anti-Drug Coalition Coordinator Jodi Salvo, one vaping cartridge is equal to one pack of cigarettes, which is roughly 200 puffs. She pointed out that, in past years, youth addiction was not prevalent because of the time needed to commit.
“It took them a lot longer to smoke a pack of cigarettes than today. Here, you’re pretty much getting your pack per day because it’s well-flavored and it’s easier to get into your lungs.”
Tuscarawas Central Catholic Youth-2-Youth member Brock West noted that parents can be under the misconception that just one student is using the vaping product but in reality, the small device is passed around.
Parents are encouraged to go to the Tuscarawas Anti-Drug Coalitions website to find detailed information about vaping.
Available resources include Ohio’s tobacco program and free help for teens through My Life My Quit at 855-891-9989.
Newsymom.com news affiliate – WTUZ Radio Mary Alice Reporting
