Lake County General Health District (LCGHD) is reminding residents of the dangers of severe pulmonary disease associated with “vaping” through the use of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) products. Lake County is currently investigating two reported cases; however, no additional information is available at this time. The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has reported 22 cases of severe pulmonary disease associated with vaping since October 1, 2019. These cases included males and females, ages 15-59. All cases had to be hospitalized.
Patients with severe pulmonary disease often have respiratory symptoms, such as cough, shortness of breath, or fatigue. These symptoms will often worsen within the days or weeks before a person seeks medical attention. Additional symptoms associated with the illness are fever, lack of appetite, chest pain, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Some patients may require additional treatment, such as intubation for difficulty breathing.
According to Tara Perkins, Director of Nursing of the LCGHD, “The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and ODH are working diligently, as investigations continue in hopes of identifying what product(s) or chemicals might be responsible for these illnesses.”
LCGHD would also like to remind residents that LCGHD offers cessation services, and information regarding tobacco use. Please contact Shaelin Hurley at (440)350-2464 for more information regarding LCGHD’s Tobacco Program.
Additional vaping information can be found on the CDC’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html.
