Buri Ram Students Critically Ill: Vaping Kratom Causes Lung Damage
Buri Ram, Thailand—A chilling incident in Buri Ram province highlights the dangers of e-cigarette and kratom use among young people. Three students are hospitalized in critical condition due to severe lung damage. This alarming situation follows renewed warnings about the increasing availability of «toy» vaping devices disguised as popular cartoon characters, readily accessible and popular among children.
The three students, in grades 5, 6, and 8, reportedly suffered vomiting, chest tightness, and severe breathing difficulties after two years of e-cigarette use and kratom juice consumption. The prolonged exposure caused dangerously low oxygen levels and rapid heart rates, necessitating urgent medical intervention. Two were initially admitted to Satuk Hospital earlier this week; the third was admitted on Thursday. One student’s condition worsened, requiring transfer to Buri Ram Hospital. This is not an isolated incident; last month, a ninth-grader from the same school was admitted to Satuk Hospital with similar symptoms, suggesting a wider problem.
Paphawarin Simlakorn, an emergency responder from Don Mon municipality, reports that social media images show an ambulance transporting the students to the hospital, emphasizing the situation’s urgency. Surasak Koonpak, a municipal clerk, confirmed the hospital admissions and the severity of the students' conditions.
Local authorities responded swiftly. Buri Ram Provincial Police investigated the illegal e-cigarette and kratom sources, arresting two suspects operating a shop near the school. The police seized e-cigarettes, kratom juice, and a firearm from the premises. Operating for two years, the shop also sold products online, highlighting easy access for children via digital platforms.
Don Mon municipality proactively educates the community about the dangers of e-cigarettes and kratom, including anti-drug sporting events. However, controlling access, especially for young people, is challenging due to the proliferation of online vendors.
Further concern arises from «toy» vaping devices aggressively marketed to young people. Deputy government spokesman Anukool Pruksanusak issued a public warning about these deceptively designed e-cigarettes, often resembling popular anime characters like Doraemon. Their low cost—some as little as 99 baht—makes them easily accessible, even to children with limited funds. Mr. Pruksanusak emphasized the government’s commitment to combating the illegal sale and use of e-cigarettes, especially among youth.
This incident grimly illustrates the health risks associated with e-cigarettes and kratom, particularly for adolescents. Easy access and attractive marketing create a dangerous combination. Effective strategies—combining law enforcement, community education, and parental vigilance—are urgently needed to address this growing public health concern. The long-term health consequences for these students remain a serious concern, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and support.
