The CDC is studying lung diseases related to the use of electronic cigarettes

NEW YORK (Reuters) – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is studying a "group" of lung diseases linked to the use of electronic cigarettes, after such cases were reported in 14 states.

The CDC is collaborating on investigations with the health departments of Wisconsin, Illinois, California, Indiana, and Minnesota. Since June 28, states have reported 94 possible cases of severe atmospheric-related lung disease, including 30 in Wisconsin, according to a statement from the CDC released Saturday.

The affected patients experienced coughing, shortness of breath and fatigue. Some had serious breathing difficulties requiring ventilation.

A CDC spokesperson has not been able to provide additional information about the investigation. State health representatives did not respond to requests for information.

Other states, including New York and New Jersey, have also published health advisories regarding pulmonary diseases related to vaping.

The CDC stated that there was no evidence that an infectious disease was causing the disease, but that more information was needed to determine if they were caused by the use of the electronic cigarette. It also does not link diseases to a specific product. In the United States, Juul, in which Altria Group Inc (MON) has a 35% stake, is the dominant manufacturer of electronic cigarettes.

According to the World Health Organization, electronic cigarettes are generally considered safer than traditional cigarettes, which kill up to half of users for life. But the long-term effects of nicotine devices on health remain largely unknown. In April, the US Food and Drug Administration opened an investigation into seizures of electronic cigarette users.