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Delaware investigating possible cases of vaping-related lung illnesses

Delaware Public Media

The state of Delaware is joining the growing examination of possible connections between e-cigarettes and respiratory illness.

The Delaware Division of Public Health is investigating three possible cases of lung illnesses connected to a national outbreak of severe pulmonary disease reported in 33 states. There are no confirmed cases in the First State, but five deaths related to the outbreak have been confirmed nationwide.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said it’s probing more than 450 cases of lung illnesses related to vaping since August 1st.

Delaware Public Health Director Karyl Rattay said she’s alarmed by a nationwide rise in these cases of respiratory illness. She’s urging people to quit using these devices. DPH has also notified state health providers of the CDC investigation and how to report possible cases.

“We strongly encourage individuals, especially youth, to avoid using e-cigarette products," she said. "I cannot stress this point strongly enough – these illnesses can be life-threatening.”

Symptoms related to the illness include cough, shortness of breath and chest pain. Some patients also experienced fever, vomiting and weight loss.

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