Local health professionals are reporting a growing number of young people becoming unwell after using vapes, including products believed to contain THC and other harmful substances.
Concerns have been raised after children and teenagers have presented with symptoms that doctors say are consistent with exposure to unregulated or mislabelled vaping products. Some of these items are thought to have been bought locally, while others may have been obtained online or passed between young people.
Health workers say many of the vapes involved do not match what is advertised on the packaging.
What clinicians are seeing
Professionals working in frontline services say they are seeing a pattern of illness linked to vaping, particularly among younger users.
Reported symptoms include breathing difficulties, repeated vomiting, extreme dizziness and, in some cases, loss of consciousness. In several instances, young people required urgent medical assessment.
There is particular concern around vapes that contain THC, synthetic cannabinoids, or unexpectedly high levels of nicotine. These substances may not be listed on the packaging and can have a far stronger effect than users realise.
Some products are believed to be counterfeit, designed to look like legitimate brands while containing unknown or toxic chemicals.
Why young people are at risk
Health professionals point to the way some vapes are presented as part of the problem.
Bright colours, sweet flavours and packaging that resembles confectionery can make products appealing to children. This can mask the risks, especially where the contents are stronger or different from what is expected.
Younger users are also more vulnerable to rapid nicotine addiction, which clinicians say can develop quickly and be difficult to break.
Signs parents are being asked to watch for
Parents and carers are being encouraged to look out for sudden changes in behaviour, unusual sweet or chemical smells, or vape devices hidden in bags or bedrooms.
Physical warning signs may include unexplained nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, or complaints of feeling unwell without a clear cause.
Health professionals stress that if a child becomes unwell and vaping is suspected, medical advice should be sought straight away.
Reporting concerns locally
Any concerns about the sale of illegal vapes, particularly to children, can be reported to Staffordshire County Council Trading Standards using the Report It tool.
Health teams say early reporting helps remove dangerous products from circulation and reduces the risk of further harm.
