Vaping death reported in Pa., plus multiple cases of lung injuries, health department says

One person in Pennsylvania has died from lung injuries associated with vaping, according to the state Department of Health.

In addition, nine confirmed and 12 probable cases of lung illness also have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, according to a news release.

Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine is urging people not to vape, especially if they are using illegally bought products — in particular those with THC.

“The lung injury cases are very serious, life-threatening and even fatal,”  she said in the release. “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."

Even legally bought products could pose a risk, Levine said. That's why she is advising the public to stop vaping.

The state could not provide more information about the person who died because of patient privacy laws, according to a spokeswoman.

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The state also is investigating 63 additional cases of people suffering serious lung injuries. Many have been in the hospital, the release states.

In the cases being reviewed, which are from across the state, the average age is in the mid-20s and most are males, the spokeswoman said in an email. This reflects what is being seen nationally. 

Anyone who is vaping, whether or not they are part of a medical marijuana program, should speak with their doctor about the risks and whether they might benefit from another alternative medicine, Levine said in the release.

Here are some of the signs of a potential lung injury:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Weight loss