Local health officials hopeful vaping problems are winding down

The consequences of vaping are still serious, but a local allergist thinks we might be turning a corner.

Todd Mahr with Gundersen Health System in La Crosse surmises the attention brought to the issue might have helped.

“The good news overall is the injuries have kind of tailed down,” Mahr said. “So we’ve got about 2,300 illnesses. About 47 deaths. But it’s been dropping.”

Mahr reports that in conversations with four La Crosse area school nurses, they have relayed concerning information about the habits of younger kids.

“Two of them have seen elementary school kids, fourth and fifth graders, they had been vaping,” Mahr said. “They had gotten it from their parents or siblings — they had stole it. So, if you are a vaping as an adult, keep track of your supply.”

Testing the vapes of the ill has uncovered some possibly useful information.

“Of those that have been turned in, 90% or so have tested positive for THC,” Mahr said. “So that would tell you right then that they’re not commercially available products.”

Mahr says national politicians seem to have sided with the vaping companies as opposed to citizens.