Archive: News

With the recent increase in e-cigarette-related illnesses reported in New York State and the announcement of the ban on flavored e-cigarettes, the Tompkins County Health Department supports the Governor and the New York State Department of Health in their effort to protect the public, especially youth, from these addictive products that pose serious health risks.

"Protecting youth from fruit- and candy-flavored e-cigarettes is a huge step in addressing this public health epidemic. We do not want another generation of young people addicted to nicotine," states Frank Kruppa, Public Health Director. The Health Department reminds the public of negative health risks of e-cigarette use. The inhaled E-cigarette aerosol can contain:

• fine and ultrafine toxic particles that can interfere with the growth and work of the lungs and increase the risk of heart disease, lung cancer and asthma attacks;
• heavy metals such as lead, tin and nickel;
• chemicals used for flavoring can cause a serious lung disease commonly known as "popcorn lung"; and
• volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause long-term health effects including cancer.

Anyone using vape or e-cigarette products who experiences symptoms including shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, fever, nausea, or vomiting, should contact their health care provider immediately.

The Health Department is working with NYS DOH and State Police, as directed by the Governor's announcement to enforce the 90-day ban on flavored e-cigarettes. The Health Department will work with local retailers to ensure compliance and educate the public about the potential risk of these products.

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