Vapes laced with 'zombie drug' Spice lead to hospitalisation of children, here's the shocking way they are being sold

Police officials have issued a stark warning to parents about vapes laced with 'zombie drug' spice that have been found in schools leading to the hospitalisation of children. These vapes are being sold to the children through an unusual and shocking source- social media platforms such as Snapchat, found at secondary schools across Wiltshire, police have said.

What is the spice drug?

Spice is a synthetic drug that originally came into the market to mimic the effects of cannabis. However, unlike cannabis, the drug is more dangerous due to its potency and the way it affects the brain and body.First described in 2008, the drug is not a single compound but a name given to a diverse group of drugs called synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (or SCRAs) made in clandestine laboratories. It is commonly sold in bags containing dried plants onto which the solution of the drug has been sprayed. According to the National Library of Medicine, the drug is known to trigger psychotic symptoms and as per the University of Bath, its withdrawal is more difficult than that of cannabis and leads to symptoms such as sleep issues, irritability and low mood. Other symptoms include feeling dizzy, vomiting, heart racing, sweating, anxiety and paranoia.

How is spice being detected?

Police in Wiltshire are now using a new device to test vapes in schools to check if they have been contaminated. The force is working with Bath University, Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire Council to test any suspected contaminated vapes to prevent further risks to students.

Additionally, they are advising parents to talk to their children about the dangers of using contaminated vapes.'I'd urge parents to have conversations with their child about the dangers and risks as well as what happens if they do use a vape which is contaminated with something. Make it clear that if you do take these things, it has an impact on your life.' said PCSO Jon Akehurst.The officer also added how along with the above-mentioned symptoms there have been behaviour changes in the students with them being fine before lunch but after lunch, they are elevated in aggression.Professor Chris Pudney, an expert in biotechnology from the University of Bath, told the Daily Mail 'Teenagers think they are purchasing vapes or vape fluid containing THC or nicotine when, in fact, they are laced with Spice.''We know children can have cardiac arrests when they smoke Spice, and I believe some have come quite close to death.'