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Hand with e-cigarette (symbolic photo)
Photo: wera Rodsawang / Moment RF / Getty Images
Videos of a toddler puffing on an e-cigarette have sparked outrage in Scotland. The clips from social media show the one- to two-year-old child using an e-cigarette and blowing out vapor in at least two cases, the Daily Record newspaper reported on Wednesday. Adults watched, and in one case the child coughed after inhaling.
Police said two 19-year-old women from the Ayrshire region of Scotland had been charged in connection with the case. The child, whose gender is not known, is in good health.
Local MP Siobhian Brown said she was appalled. "E-cigarettes are not harmless and contain nicotine and dangerous toxins that can damage young, developing lungs," said the politician. "I very much hope that this is an isolated case and that most responsible parents are aware of the dangers."
In Great Britain, experts are increasingly warning of an increase in e-cigarette consumption among young people. The central government in London is planning a ban on disposable vapes and measures to make e-cigarettes less attractive to young people. This includes restrictions on sweet flavors and bright packaging that primarily appeal to minors. The Scottish regional government is seeking similar legislation.
kfr/dpa