US reports 52 deaths from vaping-related illness
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed on Thursday that the death toll rose to 52 from EVALI, a lung illness associated with vaping.
As of Dec 10, 2019, a total of 2,409 hospitalized EVALI cases have been reported to CDC from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and two US territories (Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands).
Fifty-two deaths have been confirmed in 26 states and the District of Columbia, according to a CDC statement.
While it appears that vitamin E acetate is associated with EVALI, there are many different substances and product sources that are being investigated, and there may be more than one cause, the statement added.
US health officials said on Thursday four more deaths occurred since last week from a mysterious respiratory illness tied to vaping, taking the total toll to 52.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reported 118 more hospitalized cases from 50 states, the District of Columbia, and two US territories, as of Dec. 10. The number of people hospitalized now stands at 2,409.
The deaths have been confirmed in 26 states and the District of Columbia.
US officials last month reported the discovery of Vitamin E acetate – believed to be used as a cutting agent in illicit vaping products containing marijuana components – in all lung samples from 29 patients.
CDC has called Vitamin E acetate as a “chemical of concern” and recommended that the substance not be added to e-cigarette, or vaping products, while the investigation is ongoing. (Agencies)