Governor Kemp Issues Advisory After Second Vaping Death In GA

GEORGIA — After two people have died in Georgia from vaping-related illnesses, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) have issued a public health advisory on the risks of vaping and use of e-cigarettes.

“The safety of Georgians is my top priority," Kemp said. "I applaud the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Georgia Department of Public Health for their tireless work to conduct research and inform the public about this serious issue. This public health advisory will notify Georgians of the potential hazards associated with adolescent vaping and encourage youth to take proactive steps to safeguard their health and well-being. We are asking convenience stores, vape shops, and leaders in communities throughout Georgia to join us in raising awareness.”

DPH has identified 14 cases of vaping-associated illness in Georgia, including two deaths. Other possible cases are being reviewed. All patients were hospitalized and developed pneumonia with no known infectious cause, the department said. Cases range in age from 18 to 68 years (median age 26 years), 78 percent are male.

“The increasing numbers of vaping-associated lung injury and death are clear indications of the need for people to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendations and not vape,” DPH Commissioner Kathleen E. Toomey said “The Georgia Department of Public Health is working closely with Governor Kemp and the Georgia Department of Education to provide education and awareness about the imminent health risks of vaping and e-cigarette use, especially among adolescents.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is working with states to investigate more than 1,000 cases of vaping-associated illness and at least 18 deaths, the DPH said. No specific e-cigarette device or substance has been linked to all cases. Most patients have reported a history of using vaping products containing THC. Many patients have reported using THC and nicotine. Some have reported the use of e-cigarette products containing only nicotine.

The first vaping-related death in Georgia happened last month. The DPH said the victim had a history of heavy nicotine vaping, but no history of vaping THC.

Without knowing the specific cause of the vaping-associated illness, health officials said discontinuing use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices is the best prevention against becoming ill.

"E-cigarettes and other vaping devices are not safe for youth, young adults, pregnant women or adults who do not currently use tobacco products," the DPH said. "People who use e-cigarette products should not buy vaping products off the street and should not modify or add any substances to e-cigarette products."

Symptoms of vaping-associated illness, which worsen over time, include cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. People with a history of vaping who are experiencing breathing problems or any of these symptoms should seek medical care.