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While US health authorities are examining the possible causes of hundreds of serious respiratory illnesses among people using electronic cigarettes and other vaping devices, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has activated its center for Emergency Operations (EOC) to facilitate investigations. .
"CDC's priority is to research the causes of this epidemic of e-cigarette and e-cigarette related injuries and deaths," said CDC Director Robert Redfield. "The activation of the CDC's Emergency Operations Center allows us to improve operations and provide additional support to CDC staff working to protect our country from this serious health threat."
Reuters reported that the Emergency Operations Center provides a central command post where teams of trained experts, including staff of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), follow emergencies from Public Health, share information and coordinate responses.
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Authorities identified 380 confirmed and probable cases in 36 states and one territory, including six deaths.
The researchers discovered carcinogenic chemicals in the vapors of electronic cigarettes, such as formaldehyde. However, it is not yet clear whether these chemicals are present in sufficient quantities to cause harm.
The vapor of the electronic cigarette contains tiny particles that carry aromas. Some laboratory and early stage animal studies suggest that these aroma particles can damage the lungs, airways and blood vessels, but further research is needed to better understand how the human body responds to these substances. .
Last week, the White House announced that federal regulators would develop guidelines to remove all electronic cigarette flavors from the market, with the exception of tobacco.
This ban targets the growing popularity of flavored nicotine vape formulas among teens. Health officials announced Wednesday that preliminary data indicated that more than one in four high school students had said they were vaping this year, compared to one in five in 2018.
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Health officials urge people to stop taking vapors and seek treatment if they have trouble breathing or have chest pains.
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