As posted to the CDC website on 9/27/19:
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 e-cigarette product use, or vaping. The latest findings from the investigation suggest products containing THC play a role in the outbreak. More information is needed to know whether one or more e-cigarette or vaping products, substances, or brand is responsible for the outbreak. CDC continues to work closely with FDA, states, public health partners, and clinicians on this outbreak.
Recommendations for the public:
- While this investigation is ongoing, CDC recommends that you consider refraining from using e-cigarette, or vaping, products, particularly those containing THC.
- If you used e-cigarettes containing nicotine to quit cigarette smoking, do not return to smoking cigarettes.
- Anyone who uses an e-cigarette or vaping product should not buy these products (e.g., e-cigarette or vaping products with THC or CBD oils) off the street, and should not modify or add any substances to these products that are not intended by the manufacturer.
- If you do use e-cigarette products and you experience cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, or weight loss, see a medical provider promptly.
What we know about the outbreak:
There are 805 lung injury cases reported from 46 states and 1 U.S. territory. Twelve deaths have been confirmed in 10 states.
Nearly two thirds (62%) of patients are 18 to 34 years old; with 22% of patients between 18-21.
16% of patients are under 18 years.
All reported patients have a history of e-cigarette product use or vaping.
About 77% reported using THC-containing products; 36% reported exclusive use of THC-containing products.
About 57% reported using nicotine-containing products; 16% reported exclusive use of nicotine-containing products.
For more information: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html
NEED HELP?
Resources for IC students:
At Ithaca College, the BASICS Program offers nonjudgmental, personalized sessions to help IC students set strategies for reducing or quitting any type of substance use. BASICS sessions are free and confidential. Check out our website or send an email to basics@ithaca.edu for more information or to schedule an appointment. The BASICS Program is a service of the Center for Health Promotion.
Free Quit Kits are available in the Center for Health Promotion resource room, located on the lower level of the health center.
To see a medical provider on campus, contact Hammond Health Center for a confidential appointment.
Recommended online support resources:
1) Text DITCHJUUL to 88709. (www.truthinitiative.org)
3) www.teen.smokefree.gov/become-smokefree/quitstart-app
4) www.teen.smokefree.gov/quit-vaping
Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations should contact Nancy Reynolds at nreynolds@ithaca.edu or (607) 274-7933. We ask that requests for accommodations be made as soon as possible.