Vaping Death Confirmed In Pennsylvania

PENNSYLVANIA — The state's first death related to vaping was confirmed Friday by Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine.

The one death is in addition to multiple cases of lung injuries associated with vaping. Levine urged Pennsylvania residents to avoid vaping.

The identity, age, and location of the vaping victim was not disclosed by authorities.

"The lung injury cases are very serious, life-threatening and even fatal," Dr. Levine said. "We do not yet know what is making people sick, and whether the illnesses are related to products being used, or potentially the delivery of those products. I strongly urge everyone who is vaping illegally bought products, in particular those with THC, to stop. In addition, there could be possible risks with legally purchased products. We want to warn people that investigations are ongoing and we advise they use extreme caution before using any vaping product at this time."

Pennsylvania has reported nine confirmed and 12 probable cases of the lung illness to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and are investigating an additional 63 cases.

Each of the people involved have suffered "serious" lung injuries. Most have been hospitalized, according to information from the state Department of Health.

"Many medications carry risk and vaping medical marijuana products sold in our dispensaries carries risk in the same way that other medications do," Levine said. "If you are vaping, whether as part of the medical marijuana program or not, it is essential that you have an honest conversation with your physician about the potential risk for serious illness. For those who are part of the medical marijuana program and have concerns, we encourage you to talk to your physician or the pharmacist at the dispensary."

Symptoms of a potential lung injury associated with vaping including cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, vomiting, fatigue, fever, and weight loss.

State health officials are working with the Poison Control Centers in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Food and Drug Administration as part of the widespread investigation into vaping illnesses.