The Thai Ministry of Public Health has ramped up efforts to combat the illegal sale of e-cigarettes, with recent operations leading to the seizure of over 3,000 vape products worth more than 2 million baht. This initiative, aimed at protecting young people and the general public from the dangers of vaping, reflects the government's commitment to public health.
On February 23, 2023, Mr. Jirayu Huangsap, advisor to the Prime Minister, led this crackdown with the collaboration of the Office of Consumer Protection and the Bangkok Public Health Department. The enforcement teams focused on shops around Ramindra, Bangkok, where they found e-cigarettes being sold, often near schools and residential communities. Dr. Phanumart Yanawat, Director General of the Department of Disease Control (DDC), emphasized the urgency of this operation as e-cigarettes' popularity continues to rise among youths.
During the inspections, authorities confiscated e-cigarettes available in various forms, including disposable devices and those marketed with cartoon characters. The DDC cautioned the public about the appealing designs and flavors of these products, which can mask significant health risks. Dr. Phanumart stated, "The rapid spread of e-cigarettes is concerning due to their attractive design and flavors, which can lead to serious health issues." The government aims to not only remove these products from circulation but also educate young people about the dangers associated with these products.
Major concerns include respiratory ailments linked to vaping, particularly cases of lung injury, known as EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury). The DDC warned about the hazardous chemicals often found in vape products and highlighted the risk posed by those containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can significantly worsen lung health.
Alongside measures against e-cigarettes, the Ministry also issued reminders about the importance of flu vaccinations, especially as cases of influenza see an uptick. The public is urged to seek vaccinations as part of their health care routine to prevent outbreaks and maintain community health standards.
To facilitate public involvement, the DDC encouraged citizens to report any suspected illegal sales of e-cigarettes. The Consumer Protection Hotline offers assistance at 1166 and allows the public to play an active role in curbing this growing issue.
The Thai Ministry of Public Health continues to reassess and implement tools directed at enhancing public health measures, especially concerning the alarming trends of vaping among the youth. With these combined efforts, authorities represent the frontlines of protecting public health and educating the population about the risks associated with vaping and the importance of vaccination.