Indiana Reports First Vaping-Related Death

Monday, September 9th, 2019 7:42am

By Mike Perleberg @mikedup84

One person has died and dozens more cases of respiratory illness have been tied to vaping.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - An Indiana resident has died of a severe lung injury linked to vaping.

The death announced Friday by the Indiana State Department of Health is the state’s first and the country’s third tied to the use of electronic cigarettes. Previous deaths have been reported in Illinois and Oregon.

“The tragic loss of a Hoosier and rising number of vaping-related injuries are warnings that we cannot ignore,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box. “We know that these products typically contain nicotine, which is highly addictive, and many cases report inhaling THC and other substances not available in commercial products. While it is unclear what substances are causing injury, when you use these products with other chemicals, you may not know everything that you’re inhaling and the harm it can cause.”

The person who died from a vaping-related illness was older than age 18, the ISDH said, but no additional details about the patient are being released due to privacy laws.

Box says the agency has confirmed eight cases of severe lung injury linked to vaping and is investigating more than 20 other suspected cases. U.S. health officials say they’ve identified 450 possible similar illnesses in 33 states.

Anyone who has vaped within the last 90 days and develops respiratory symptoms is advised to stop using the e-cigarette products and see a healthcare professional immediately.

Vaping is increasing in popularity, particularly among teenagers. The 2018 Indiana Youth Tobacco Survey found that vaping has increased 387 percent among high school students and 358 percent among middle school students since 2012. Between 2016 and 2018, nearly 35,000 more Indiana students began using e-cigarettes.

The ISDH and Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb have announced a $2 million plan to combat youth vaping.

Ind. State Health Dept. Asks Hospitals To Report Possible Vaping-Related Illness

Events

Pound Class
PoundFit with SamK ~ Cardio inspired by drumming! Burn calories, tone muscles and build strength all while moving to the beat of the music!! This 45 minute jam session will change your life!! All you need to bring is water, a yoga mat if you have one and $5! Every Wednesday 6pm at Heritage Hall and every Friday at 6:00 p.m. at Rising Sun Church of Christ (this location may sometimes change due to church functions).
18th Sep at Heritage Hall
Bipolar and Depression Support Group
There is a comfort to be around those who are like us. This group is not led by professionals. Rather guided by "seasoned peers" who know first hand your struggles. For Adult Men and Women 18 years and up.
18th Sep at Lawrenceburg Community Center
Bountiful Hearts Meal
Enjoy a free community meal with us!
18th Sep at First Presbyterian Church Harrison