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Six Hoosiers have now died from vaping related illnesses

Posted at 1:19 PM, Feb 21, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-21 14:13:34-05

INDIANAPOLIS — Six Hoosiers have died as a result of a vaping illness outbreak across the US, according to the Indiana State Department of Health.

In Indiana, the use of e-cigarettes and vaping among youth has risen more than 350 percent among high school and middle school students since 2012, according to ISDH.

The latest death from a vaping illness was an adult over the age of 65.

The six deaths have included:

  • 1 death: 18-29
  • 1 death: 30-39
  • 2 deaths: 50-59
  • 2 deaths: 65+

ISDH is not releasing the counties where the deaths have occurred.

As of February 4, 2020, a total of 2,758 cases vaping illness injuries have been reported in 50 different states.

There have also been 64 deaths in 28 states across the country, according to the CDC.

The CDC recommends that until more is known, people consider refraining from using e-cigarette or vaping products if they are concerned about these specific health risks.

Symptoms can include:

  • Cough, shortness of breath or chest pain
  • Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
  • Fatigue, fever or abdominal pain

Some patients have reported that their symptoms developed over a few days, while others have reported that their symptoms developed over several weeks. Anyone who experiences these symptoms should see their healthcare provider right away.