IDPH reports third vaping related death

Posted on October 31, 2019
The IDPH said than 80% of the cases in Illinois report recent use of THC-containing products, primarily obtaining them from informal sources. (Photo Pixabay)

 

By Neil Doyle

SPRINGFIELD – Health officials are reporting the death of a third Illinois resident who had recently vaped and been hospitalized with a severe lung injury.

“The unfortunate death of a third Illinois resident underscores the seriousness of these lung injuries,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike in a news release. “New cases continue to be reported in Illinois and across the country. IDPH is urging Illinoisans not to vape or use e-cigarettes products, especially illicit THC based products, while we continue to investigate this outbreak.”

IDPH said more than 80% of the cases in Illinois report recent use of THC-containing products, primarily obtaining them from informal sources.

At this time, a total of 166 people in Illinois, ranging in age from 13 to 75 years old, with a median age of 22, have experienced lung injuries after using e-cigarettes or vaping. IDPH continues to work with local health departments to investigate another 42 possible cases in Illinois.

Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]

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