GREAT FALLS — Montana now has its first confirmed case of severe pulmonary disease associated with vaping.
The confirmed case is a Yellowstone County resident in their 30s with a history of vaping nicotine and THC. The person, whose name has not been released, was hospitalized in August, and is now home recovering.
The announcement was made by the Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services in a news release on Friday.
DPHHS says that eight deaths associated with severe pulmonary illness have occurred across the nation. As of September 17, there have been 530 confirmed and probable cases of lung disease associated with e-cigarette product use, or vaping, reported in 38 states and the US Virgin Islands. Two thirds (67%) of cases in this investigation are people 18 to 34 years old, and 16% are younger than 18 years old.
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Symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are also common. Symptoms worsen over a period of days or weeks and do not appear to be caused by a pulmonary infection. Anyone who vapes and is experiencing respiratory issues should promptly consult their provider.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) reports that products used could include a number of substances, including THC, CBD, nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals.
From the CDC website:
What we know
- There are 530 cases of lung injury reported from 38 states and 1 U.S. territory. Seven deaths have been confirmed in 6 states.
- CDC has received complete sex and age data on 373 of 530 cases.
- Nearly three fourths (72%) of cases are male
- Two thirds (67%) of cases are 18 to 34 years old
- 16% of cases are under 18 years and 17% are 35 years or older
- All reported cases have a history of e-cigarette product use or vaping.
- Based on initial data from certain states we know: 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.
What we don’t know
- We do not yet know the specific cause of these lung injuries. 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.
“This is deeply concerning, especially given the rapid increase in young people using e-cigarettes,” said Governor Steve Bullock. “Montana is supporting the national investigation to determine what is making people sick, while also looking at options on how we can take action without waiting on Washington.”
State Medical Officer Dr. Greg Holzman said DPHHS is working directly with local health officials on the investigation and is urging state residents to take into account the current situation both in Montana and in other states and respond accordingly. “I urge Montanans to refrain from using e-cigarettes, considering the existing unknown health consequences,” Holzman said. “If you’re having difficulties quitting these highly addictive nicotine products contact your healthcare provider or the Montana Tobacco Quit Line.”
John Felton, President/CEO of RiverStone Health and Yellowstone County’s health officer, thanked the person associated with the first confirmed case for providing valuable information about their illness. “In order to solve what is causing these illnesses, it’s imperative that people impacted cooperate with the investigation so that accurate information can be gathered,” he said. “These investigative efforts are happening around the country, and we appreciate those in Montana who are assisting.”
DPHHS says that adding to the concern is the high rate of e-cigarette use among youth. In Montana, e-cigarettes are now the most commonly used tobacco product among high school students. The 2019 Montana Youth Risk Behavior Survey showed nearly a third (30%) of Montana high school students currently use e-cigarettes and more than half (58%) have tried them.
