New information today paints a more worrisome picture of e-cigarette use. The CDC is reporting a dramatic increase in the number of people suffering from lung injuries as a result of vaping. It jumped from 380 cases (just a week ago) to 530 cases reported today. There are now eight confirmed deaths. The CDC has gathered data that shows:
Most patients have reported a history of using e-cigarette products containing THC. Many patients have reported using THC and nicotine. Some have reported the use of e-cigarette products containing only nicotine.… The investigation has not identified any specific e-cigarette or vaping product (devices, liquids, refill pods, and/or cartridges) or substance that is linked to all cases.
Now the Washington Post is reporting:
In a sign of the seriousness of the e-cigarette investigation, the enforcement arm of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has begun a parallel probe…. FDA officials disclosed Thursday that investigators from FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations have been pursuing a parallel investigation since the illnesses were first reported earlier this summer.
Mitch Zeller, the director of FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products says, “The focus is on the supply chain.”
While all this is sorted out, the CDC is continuing to warn people, saying:
Until we know more, if you are concerned about these specific health risks, CDC recommends that you consider refraining from using e-cigarette or vaping products.