Authorities Issue Warnings on Vapes; COVID-19’s Guidelines Change

COFEPRIS reported it found 33 highly toxic substances in vapes and e-cigarettes, causing them to generate addiction despite the claims they were created for the opposite purpose. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health informed of the positive impact of warning labels on packaged food, claiming they are changing purchasing behaviors.

Furthermore, face masks and COVID-19 tests are no longer mandatory following a change in COVID-19’s Sanitary Guidelines.

Ready for more? This is The Week in Health. 

COFEPRIS Finds Over 30 Toxic Substances in Vapes, E-Cigarettes

COFEPRIS presented the results of a pioneering analysis conducted by the National Laboratory for Reference on Electronic Vaping Devices. The study found 33 highly toxic substances in these products, of which only three were reported on the label. Among the reported substances are: glycerin, which can be found in self-care products; propylene glycol, commonly used in cosmetic products and smoke machines; and artificial and natural sweeteners. “These devices were created under the pretense that they could be useful to deal with tobacco addiction. Nevertheless, their sole purpose is to drive further addiction, mainly among teenagers and young people, to create bigger markets to the detriment of public health,” said Alex Svarch, Federal Commissioner, COFEPRIS. Read the whole story here. 

The Results of Placing Warning Labels on Packaged Food

A year after the implementation of warning labels on food products, 80 percent of Mexico’s population recognizes the octagon-shaped labels, according to Mexico’s Deputy Minister of Prevention and Health Promotion, Hugo López-Gatell. The labels mark products with high amounts of fat, sugar or calories, allowing people to make informed purchasing decisions. “Before the labeling of prepackaged food, two-thirds of cereals in the average supermarket contained high levels of sugar, but now only one-third do,” said López Gatell. Learn more about it on MBN. 

Snapchat, Red Cross to Prevent Deaths from Heart Attacks

Snapchat, GoSpooky and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies partnered to offer an augmented reality experience to teach cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This initiative aims to diminish the number of deaths from heart attacks as applying CPR can improve the patient’s chance to arrive at the hospital in good condition following a cardiovascular event by 30 percent. “This interactive experience with augmented reality guides you with the device's camera through a real situation in which you can walk among people who perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation techniques. It also invites you to answer quizzes and participate in interactive exercises,” said Snapchat. Find the Snapcode to start using this tool on MBN. 

IMSS to Invest US$335 Million in Medical Units in Chiapas

IMSS will invest US$335 million to restore and build Rural Medical Units (UMR) and 80 hospitals in Chiapas. Most of the spending will be destined for equipment, antibacterial curtains and civil works in the units of Milpoleta, Bautista Chico, Sactzu, Nichnamtic, in the municipal seat of Chamula and Yalvante. “There is so much need and the pandemic was so hard that there is little time to waste, so we have to do it right and do it soon,” said Zoé Robledo, General Director, IMSS. Learn more about this project here. 

COVID-19’s Sanitary Guidelines Change

Mexico experienced a decrease in COVID-19 cases during the last three months, putting the country at its lowest level of contagion. Consequently, the sanitary guidelines for COVID-19 have been updated. Face masks are no longer mandatory for closed spaces and disinfectant mats are now considered to be unnecessary since there is no evidence that this practice yields any positive results. Also, negative COVID-19 tests are no longer mandatory if employees are to return to work. Meanwhile, washing hands frequently and keeping a safe distance is still advised. Vaccination is not obligatory, although it is recommended. Read the whole article here.