By NewsDesk @infectiousdiseasenews
On Thursday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced updated numbers related to the multistate outbreak of lung injury associated with use of e-cigarette, or vaping, products.
Through Oct. 1, 1,080 lung injury cases associated with using e-cigarette, or vaping, products have been reported to CDC from 48 states and the US Virgin Islands.
Of this total, 18 deaths have been confirmed in 15 states: Alabama, California (2), Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas (2), Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, Oregon (2), and Virginia.
Among 578 patients with information on substances used in e-cigarette, or vaping, products in the 90 days prior to symptom onset: About 78% reported using THC-containing products, with or without nicotine-containing products; 37% reported exclusive use of THC-containing products; and 17% reported exclusive use of nicotine-containing products.
Health officials note the specific chemical exposure(s) causing lung injuries associated with e-cigarette use, or vaping, remains unknown at this time.
CDC says while this investigation is ongoing, they recommend that you consider refraining from using e-cigarette, or vaping, products, particularly those containing THC.
