30 cases of severe lung disease due to vaping reported in Louisiana

(WAFB) - The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) says 30 cases of pulmonary illness linked to vaping have been reported in Louisiana, as of Monday, Nov. 18. The cases range from ages 17 to 71 years old. A statewide alert was first issued Thursday, Sept. 5 when 9 cases were reported.

Due to the growing number of people across the country being hospitalized with severe pulmonary symptoms associated with the use of e-cigarettes, LDH is now asking doctors and other healthcare providers to report suspected cases to the state.

The state is also advising doctors to ask their patients who use e-cigs, or have used them in the past 90 days, about any signs or symptoms of pulmonary illness they may be experiencing.

The first death in Louisiana was reported Monday, Nov. 18, LDH says.

“E-cigarettes typically contain nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. Others may contain marijuana or other substances. The devices may be referred to as e-cigs, vapes, e-hookahs, vape pens, mods, tanks, or electronic nicotine delivery systems.”

LDH says e-cigs can contain harmful substances, including nicotine, heavy metals such as lead, volatile organic compounds, and cancer-causing chemicals. LDH says while the use of e-cigs may help some smokers reduce their tobacco use, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved e-cigs as a quit aid and no conclusive data exists about whether e-cigs are actually an effective way to stop smoking.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE PUBLIC FROM LDH

If you are concerned about the health risks associated with e-cigarettes, consider discontinuing the products.

E-cigarette products should not be bought off the street and should not be modified or have substances not intended for use by the manufacturer added.

Youth, young adults and pregnant women, as well as adults who do not currently use tobacco products, should not use e-cigarettes.

Monitor for symptoms of severe side effects if you do use e-cigarettes. If you do develop symptoms, seek medical attention. These symptoms include:

Cough
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Fatigue
Fever
Weight loss

Additionally, concerns about the harmful effects from e-cigarettes can be directed to your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Adult smokers who are looking to quit smoking can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit www.quitwithusla.org for information on FDA-approved counseling and medications.