SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Department of Public Health has reported the death of a fourth Illinois resident who had recently been hospitalized with lung injury associated with the use of e-cigarette or vaping products.
To date, a total of 179 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 41 possible cases in Illinois.
Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said 80% of patients have reported vaping T-H-C (Tetrahydrocannabinol).
“We think that’s associated with the black market T-H-C supply. We have to look more closely into that. We definitely want to identify where this is coming from, and which products it is associated with,” Ezike said.
Researchers have also found that vitamin E acetate may be linked to the illnesses. Those affected in Illinois range in age from 13 to 75, but the average age is 22-years-old.
Vitamin E acetate is used as an additive in the production of e-cigarette or vaping products.
Ezike said vapers need to watch for symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
“If they have these symptoms, and have a history of vaping, they need to go to a medical provider as soon as possible and indicate that they have a history of vaping,” Ezike said.
Cases have been reported in 32 counties statewide.
