An outbreak of vaping-related illnesses have been associated with multiple deaths in the U.S. According to the CDC, there are at least 805 probable cases of vaping-related lung injury reported from 46 states. 12 deaths have been confirmed in 10 states. Of those patients, about 77% reported using THC-containing e-cig products, with or without nicotine, and 16% reported exclusive use of nicotine-containing products.
CDC, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), state and local health departments, and other clinical and public health partners are investigating a multistate outbreak of lung injury associated with electronic cigarette product use (also known as e-cigarettes, vapes, e-hookahs, vape pens, tank systems, mods, and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS)).
E-cigarettes work by heating a liquid to produce an aerosol that users inhale into their lungs. The liquid can contain nicotine, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabinoid (CBD) oils, and other substances and additives.
The specific chemical exposure(s) causing lung injuries associated with e-cigarette product use, or vaping, remains unknown at this time. No single product or substance has been linked to all lung injury cases. More information is needed to know whether one or more e-cigarette or vaping products, substances, or brand is responsible for the outbreak.
While the investigation is ongoing, the CDC recommends refraining from using e-cigarette products, particularly those containing THC. If you are an adult who used e-cigarettes containing nicotine to quit cigarette smoking, do not return to smoking cigarettes. Youth, young adults, and women who are pregnant should not use e-cigarette products. Adults who do not currently use tobacco products should not start using e-cigarette products.