Teens Hospitalized: Vape Poisoning Suspected
Police warn parents after two young people in Boden fall ill
Two teenagers from Boden, Sweden, are currently hospitalized under suspicion of poisoning linked to vaping; local police are urging parents to discuss the potential dangers of e-cigarettes with their children.
Investigation Launched
On Friday morning, police in the northern region were alerted to the hospitalizations of the two teenagers in Boden, with a preliminary investigation launched into possible bodily harm. According to police spokesperson Elisabeth Glaas, authorities suspect the teens may have ingested an unknown, hazardous substance through vaping.
“There is suspicion that they may have received some unknown, dangerous substance after smoking vapes, electronic cigarettes,”
police stated on their website.
The specific ages and conditions of the teens have not been released; however, the seized vapes are undergoing technical analysis as the investigation proceeds.
Police Warning
Given previous incidents involving young people hospitalized after vaping in the region, Elisabeth Glaas emphasized caution. “We want guardians to have a dialogue with their children and teenagers to inform them that it may be associated with great risks of smoking these electronic cigarettes, unless it is certainly knowing what they contain.”
She added, “If you do not know what these electronic cigarettes contain, think before you test.”
Vaping Risks
Vaping, increasingly popular among young people, involves inhaling aerosol produced by electronic cigarettes. These devices heat a liquid typically containing nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. A 2024 study published in *JAMA Network Open* found that adolescents who vape are more likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes (JAMA Network Open).
What are Vapes?
Vapes, or electronic cigarettes, are battery-powered devices that heat a liquid, usually containing nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerol, and flavorings, to create an inhalable aerosol. The Heart Lung Foundation notes that vaping can lead to respiratory issues.
Authorities urge parents and guardians to educate young people about the potential risks associated with vaping and the importance of knowing the contents of e-cigarettes before use.