Serious Vape Related Respiratory Illnesses Reported in Michigan

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is investigating reports of e-cigarette and vaping-associated respiratory illnesses. Between June 28th and August 27th this summer, there were six cases reported to MDHHS, which the organization is now investigating. All of the cases have been reported in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, and most of the individuals, whose average age is 19-39, have been hospitalized for severe respiratory illness. Sarah Lyon-Callo, MDHHS state epidemiologist said, “The severity of illness people are experiencing is alarming.” She said Michiganders should be aware that using e-cigarettes and vaping can be dangerous because the products in vaping and e-cigarettes contain harmful chemicals that can result in damage to a user’s lungs, heart, or other body systems.

As of August 23rd, 203 possible cases of severe respiratory disease associated with e-cigarette use have been reported in 23 states. So far, the Michigan investigation has not identified a specific brand of device or e-liquid that is causing these illnesses. Similar to reports across the nation, there does not appear to be an infectious cause of the illnesses. MDHHS is working closely with state and federal partners during this national outbreak investigation. If an individual vaping or using e-cigarettes develops symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, cough, fever and/or nausea and vomiting, he or she should contact a health provider immediately and know that symptoms may occur long after use of a device.