DPH updates info on possible vaping-related lung illness

The Delaware Division of Public Health continues to participate in a multi-state investigation into an outbreak of severe pulmonary disease reported across the country. So far, 38 states, including Delaware, have reported cases of lung injury associated with use of e-cigarette products (devices, liquids, refill pods, and cartridges).

Since DPH released its initial report Sept. 9, the number of cases of vaping-related lung illnesses under investigation in Delaware now includes six probable cases and an additional five cases under investigation. There are no current confirmed cases.

As of Sept. 19, there were 530 probable or confirmed cases of lung injury associated with the use of e-cigarette or vaping products reported throughout the United States, according to the CDC. Seven deaths related to this outbreak have been reported in six states.

“As we continue to investigate additional cases of lung injury associated with the use of e-cigarette products, we strongly recommend that individuals avoid using e-cigarette products,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “These illnesses can be life-threatening.” More research needs to be done on the long-term impacts, but the CDC has stated that the aerosol used in e-cigarettes contains harmful substances such as nicotine, lead products and cancer-causing agents.

The CDC launched its investigation into the lung illnesses Aug. 1, and has worked closely since then with the Food and Drug Administration, states and other public health partners, and clinicians to determine the cause. No evidence of infectious diseases has been identified in these patients, therefore lung illnesses are likely associated with a chemical exposure. The investigation has not yet identified any specific substance or e-cigarette product linked to all cases. Many patients report using e-cigarette products with liquids that contain cannabinoid products, such as tetrahydrocannabinol.

Based on reports from several states, patients have experienced respiratory symptoms (cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain), and some have also experienced gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea) or nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, fever, or weight loss. Symptoms typically develop over a period of days but sometimes can manifest over several weeks. Fever, tachycardia, and elevated white blood cell count have been reported in the absence of an identifiable infectious disease.

While this investigation is ongoing, DPH strongly encourages people not to use e-cigarette products. People who do use them should monitor themselves for symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or fever, and promptly seek medical attention for any health concerns.

Although there is risk with any vaping product, people should not buy these products off the street and should not modify e-cigarette products or add any substances that are not intended by the manufacturer. E-cigarette products should never be used by youth, young adults, pregnant women, or adults who do not currently use tobacco products.

People who may be concerned about their health after using an e-cigarette product should contact their health care provider, or the local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Adult smokers who are attempting to quit should use evidence-based treatments, including counseling and FDA-approved medications. Those who need help quitting tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, can call the Delaware Quitline at 1-866-409-1858. Youth who smoke or vape can contact the American Lung Association’s NOT on Tobacco Cessation Program for teens (1-800-LUNGUSA).  The Truth Initiative also operates a text cessation program. To participate, text “DITCHJUUL” to 887-09.

DPH recently issued a health alert to Delaware medical providers advising them of the CDC outbreak investigation and providing guidance for reporting possible cases. Clinicians should report cases of significant respiratory illness of unclear etiology and a history of vaping to the Delaware Division of Public Health, Bureau of Epidemiology (24/7) at 1-888-295-5156.

For more information and updates on the CDC’s multi-state investigation, go to https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html.