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SAN ANTONIO – Two confirmed cases of severe pneumonia associated with vaping in Bexar County, the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District said on Friday.
Metro Health officials also strongly urged residents to stop using e-cigarettes and vape machines.
The recommendation comes after six deaths and more than 450 possible cases of lung disease associated with the consumption of electronic cigarettes reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 33 states and the US Virgin Islands.
According to a press release, 29 cases are under investigation in the United States, including 12 in Texas.
Related: 6th person dies from a pulmonary disease related to vaping
The CDC and the American Lung Association have expressed concern about the outbreak of lung disease associated with the use of electronic cigarettes. According to the CDC, electronic cigarettes deliver an aerosol to the user by heating a liquid typically containing nicotine, flavors and / or other chemicals. All reported cases indicated the use of electronic cigarette products, and some patients reported using electronic cigarettes containing products containing cannabinoids, such as THC.
"It's important for parents to be aware of the dangers of e-cigarettes and to talk to their teens about the risks associated with e-cigarettes," said Jennifer Herriott, acting director of Metro Health. "We urge the community to be vigilant about the vaping products they or their family members use. If you or someone you know is vape and develops even minor problems with breathing or discomfort, it is important to see a doctor immediately. "
The San Antonio Alcohol and Drug Awareness Council will share information with prevention experts in schools. Metro Health also advises teachers and school district staff to continue educating students about the dangers of the disease that may be associated with the use of the electronic cigarette.
Related: Trump administration plans to ban flavored electronic cigarettes
Some recommendations issued by the CDC include:
- Young people and young adults should not use e-cigarette products.
- Pregnant women should not use electronic cigarette products.
- Adults who do not currently use tobacco products should not start using electronic cigarette products.
- If you use electronic cigarette products, you should not buy these products on the street (for example, electronic cigarette products containing THC or other cannabinoids).
- You must not modify the e-cigarette products or add substances to these products that are not provided by the manufacturer.
- Adult smokers attempting to quit smoking should use evidence-based treatments, including counseling services and drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration. If you need help to stop smoking, including your electronic cigarette, contact your doctor or other health care provider.
Local health care providers are encouraged to report suspected cases of vapor-related illnesses to Metro Health at 210-207-8876.
Related: Texan man on the maintenance of life, the family blames vaping
If you are concerned about your health after using an electronic cigarette product, you can also contact your local Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
For more resources and information, visit cdc.gov/tobacco or sanantonio.gov/health.
Copyright 2019 by KSAT – All rights reserved.
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