Vaping debate intensifies as health concerns take centre stage

A former student from a school in the region expressed her uncertainty about the long-term effects of vaping.

“At least with cigarettes, we know what’s in them and the long-term effects of their use. We don’t really know that with vaping,” she said.

She recalled that neither vaping nor smoking was prevalent during her school days.

“It wasn’t a thing, and neither was smoking,” she said.

However, since leaving school, she has observed a rise in the popularity of both activities, which she attributes, in part, to the influence of the “’90s trends”.

“Since I’ve left school a lot of younger people are vaping and smoking,” she said.

While recognising the potential benefits of vaping for smokers trying to quit under medical supervision, she believes that individuals without a medical need should be restricted through a ban.

“I’m going to go with the health professionals, but in terms of having them accessible to young children and anyone that doesn’t need it under the doctor’s advice, I’d say yes, they should be banned,” she said.

A concerned mother’s health scare reinforced her desire for a ban

Sharing a personal experience, a concerned mother and former vaper revealed the adverse effects she encountered while attempting to quit smoking using a vape.

“I tried to give up smoking a couple of years ago and was given a vape to use instead,” she said.

After about two weeks of using the vape, something drastic happened.

“I had two seizures within 24 hours,” she said.

The mother suspected a potential link between her seizures and the vape, as the device’s battery was located adjacent to the compartment where the vaping liquid was stored.

“I was told that they were doing more investigations into vaping and the effects and links that it does have with seizures, but it could’ve been that I was breathing in slight battery acid,” she said.

“I haven’t had a vape since, (but) I’m still a smoker.

“It should be banned. I’ve got kids, and even though I’m a smoker, I don’t want them to smoke or vape.”

The mother also criticised adults who supplied vapes to minors.

“That’s totally unacceptable,” she said.

Educational authorities prioritise student wellbeing

Greater Shepparton Secondary College executive principal Barbara O’Brien highlighted the institution’s commitment to student health and safety.

“The health and safety of every student is always our first concern; that’s why we have a range of initiatives to address the dangers of vaping, which include school nurses delivering education sessions to students,” she said.

Moreover, in collaboration with Greater Shepparton City Council, efforts are being made to raise awareness among parents and guardians about the health risks and prevalence of vaping through free information sessions.

“GSSC has actively promoted these sessions with our families,” Mrs O’Brien said.

Notre Dame College deputy principal Emma Reynoldson highlighted the challenges all schools faced regarding vaping and that despite the college’s efforts to educate students about the dangers and legalities of vaping, incidents still occurred.

“We are no different from other schools with this issue,” she said.

“Students who are found vaping are also required to complete further education around the health effects and dangers of vaping; however, we still have incidents of it occurring.

“Adolescent behaviour will always push boundaries, no matter what the issue is.

“We can only ensure our students have the correct and current information on vaping and the potential harm it can cause to those who partake in it and those who may be passive users.”