Update on Lung Illnesses and Deaths Associated with E-cigarettes
The LA County Dept of Public Health warns residents about the use of vaping and e-cigarette devices as potentially harmful to proper lung function, and urges residents to STOP VAPING NOW! As of September 19, 2019, there have been 16 reports of serious vaping- associated pulmonary injury and one death associated with e-cigarettes in Los Angeles County. Nationally, there continue to be reports of people showing up in emergency departments with similar symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, fever, and may have vomiting and diarrhea. Locally and nationally, the cause for this threat remains unknown.
Approximately 2 out of 3 cases reported are in individuals age 25 and younger. Both males and female cases have been reported.
All but one reported using both an e-cigarette and a cannabis-type product, not necessarily at the same time. One reported using flavored liquids only (no nicotine, THC, or CBD). Various devices and products were reported and remain under investigation. No specific vendor, product or substance has been identified as the cause.
Public Health continues to urge healthcare providers to be on the alert for signs of severe respiratory illness among patients who recently used vaping products including e-cigarettes and report cases by phone to Los Angeles County Department of Public Health at 626-299-3504.
For information about the dangers of vaping, see: https://publichealth.lacounty.gov/docs/VapingFAQs.pdf
