A statement released Friday by the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) says vaping-related cases of severe respiratory illness are on the rise. So far, 23 cases and zero deaths have been reported in the state. Eighteen of those patients, which range in age from 17 to 60 years old, have reported the use of THC vaping products. State health officials note most cases seen nationwide have been connected to THC, but some products and devices that do not contain THC have been reported in affected states. The department expects the number of cases will likely increase as the investigation into the cause of these illnesses continues. In their statement, the IDPH says, “Iowans should not use vaping and e-cigarette products since the cause of this outbreak is not yet clear and the long-term health impacts of these products are unknown. Patients with a history of vaping who are experiencing breathing problems should seek medical care. Health care providers should ask patients with respiratory illness about the use of vaping and e-cigarette products.” The full press release can be found included with this story on our website.
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IDPH –Severe Lung Disease Associated With Vaping
IDPH News Release
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Vaping-related Illness Cases Rise in Iowa
Cases of severe respiratory illness associated with vaping continue to be reported across the U.S. and in Iowa. Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 805 cases and 12 deaths. In Iowa, there have been 23 reported cases and no deaths. Of the 23 Iowa cases, ages range from 17 to 60 and 18 have reported the use of THC. Mirroring national statistics, most of the cases (78%) have been male. All Iowa cases have recovered.
Nationally, most cases have reported the use of vaping and e-cigarette products containing THC; however, vaping products and devices that do not contain THC have also been reported among affected states. Case numbers will likely continue to increase as this investigation continues.
Iowans should not use vaping and e-cigarette products since the cause of this outbreak is not yet clear and the long-term health impacts of these products are unknown. Patients with a history of vaping who are experiencing breathing problems should seek medical care. Health care providers should ask patients with respiratory illness about the use of vaping and e-cigarette products. Health care providers are asked to report severe respiratory illness in patients with a history of vaping or e-cigarette use to the Iowa Department of Public Health (1-800-362-2736).
To learn more, visit https://idph.iowa.gov/ehi/lung-disease-vaping. Weekly Iowa case counts may also be found on this page.
