In Thailand, a 12-year-old girl from the Buri Ram province has been admitted to hospital with extensive lung damage after a prolonged habit of vaping and drinking kratom beverages. Her condition was revealed to her family only when her school notified them of her deteriorating health. According to a family member, the girl exhibited significant behavioral changes after entering fourth grade, moving away from her usual responsibilities and frequently leaving home under the guise of studying with friends.

Her worsening health led to a hospital admission following severe breathing difficulties, vomiting, and weakness. Medical assessments showed that nearly all of her lung capacity had been compromised by her vaping habit, necessitating the use of a ventilator for her recovery. The case initially came to public attention through images shared by an emergency responder, who documented similar symptoms in other students.

Three other students, from grades 5, 6, and 8, were also treated for breathing difficulties and chest tightness linked to the prolonged use of e-cigarettes and consumption of kratom, an herb known to have opioid-like effects. Reports indicate that while the grade 5 and 6 students were admitted earlier in the week, the eighth grader was brought in on a later day, with one student subsequently transferred for further treatment.

In response, authorities have launched an investigation into the vendors selling these dangerous substances. Two individuals have already been arrested, and a range of items including e-cigarettes, kratom drinks, a cough syrup suspected to be laced with kratom, and an illegal firearm were confiscated. Officials have issued a renewed government warning about the availability of illicit vaping devices, particularly those marketed disguised as miniature toys that appeal to young people. They emphasized the danger of e-cigarettes that may be adulterated with potent sedatives, urging parents to closely monitor and educate their children about the potential risks associated with vaping and drug-laced products.