JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri officials are developing a public safety campaign aimed at making young people aware of the risks of vaping.
Republican Gov. Mike Parson said at a news conference Tuesday that he is directing leaders of the state health, education and public safety departments to develop a statewide campaign within 30 days.
"This is truly an epidemic, and it is critical that actions be taken to protect the health and well-being of Missouri’s youth," Gov. Parson said.
He signed an executive order Tuesday morning for a campaign called 'Clear the Air'. The goal is to educate, warn and discourage vaping.
The campaign will focus on educating teenagers about the dangers and misconceptions of vaping and tobacco use.
State health director Randall Williams says there has been an "explosion" in the number of youths who are vaping in Missouri and across the country.
Faculty and staff at schools across the state will get training on how to spot and battle underage vaping in school halls, according to state leaders.
Gov. Parson emphasized this is just the first step, and more action could be taken once more research is complete.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that nationwide, vaping is now blamed on about 1,300 illnesses and at least 26 deaths. Missouri has reported 23 vaping illnesses and one death. Most of those affected are under the age of 25.
Parson calls the campaign a "first step."