Surge of Vape-Related Hospitalizations Results in One Death

Although vaping has long held a reputation as a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes, the habit’s uptick in popularity is revealing its true dangers. Beginning in states throughout the Midwest, patients entered hospitals with cases of mysterious, severe respiratory symptoms that could not be attributed to any known viruses or other causes. Many symptoms were initially identified as those of pneumonia, but those assumptions were rejected once treatment for the common ailment began. When treated for pneumonia, patients’ conditions worsened. Investigation into the cause of the symptoms revealed a connection between all of the affected patients: The people who were hospitalized for the unidentified respiratory condition said they use e-cigarettes, or smoke marijuana in a vape form. As of August 24, 2019, there are 193 lung disease cases, in 22 states, that may be linked to vaping, according to CNN. In Illinois, one patient died as a result of his respiratory issues. The cases are being investigated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which is encouraging doctors to gather samples from patients and inquire about the products they use. The condition is not currently attributed to a specific substance, but is believed to have been caused by vaping. The CDC, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and state health departments are attempting to identify a specific root cause of the illnesses. E-cigarette companies have faced criticism and legal action based on their dishonesty in relation to the effects of vaping. The vape brand JUUL, in particular, has been especially present in the e-cigarette conversation because of their marketing tactics that target smokers as young as middle school age. The recent hospitalizations that appear to be linked to vaping uncover the hazards of a product that was previously seen as relatively harmless. The team of attorneys at Williams DeClark Tuschman Co., L.P.A. are working to represent the rights of consumers, and hold e-cigarette companies liable for their negligent marketing strategies. For a free evaluation of your vaping-related personal injury case, call (419) 719-5195 or complete pour contact form to schedule an appointment.