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The World Health Organization says there should a ban on the use of e-cigarettes indoors and that sales to children should stop, the BBC reported.

In a report the health body says there must be no more claims that the devices can help smokers quit - until there is firm evidence to support this.

WHO experts warn the products might pose a threat to adolescents and the foetuses of pregnant women.

But campaigners say regulations must be proportionate.

According to the WHO legal steps need to be taken to end the use of e-cigarettes indoors - both in public spaces and in work places.

And the report focuses on the potential for products to spark wider cigarette use in children.

The health experts call for a ban on advertisements that could encourage children and non-smokers to use the devices.

And they say fruit, candy or alcoholic-drink style flavours should be prohibited too, while the sales of electronic cigarettes from vending machines should be heavily restricted.

The WHO warns exhaled e-cigarette vapour could increase the background air levels of some toxicants and nicotine.