Nationally, more than 450 possible cases of vaping-associated illness have been reported since June 2019. To date, 74 cases of vaping-associated illness have been identified in New York state, including seven in Central New York.
Nearly all patients who became ill were hospitalized.
“Until the investigations as to the cause of reported vape-associated illnesses in our state and across the nation is concluded, we urge all Madison County residents to stop use of all vape products,” said Madison County Public Health Director Eric Faisst. “This includes e-cigarettes and e-liquid products.”
New York state laboratory testing found very high levels of vitamin E acetate in nearly all samples examined as part of these illness investigations. At least one vitamin E acetate-containing vape product has been linked to each ill patient who provided a product for testing. Vitamin E acetate may be associated with serious health effects when inhaled due to oil-like properties. This supplement is not an approved additive to vape products.
“Although no vape associated illnesses have been reported in Madison County to date, the illnesses under investigation are very concerning,” Faisst said. “We want this message to reach residents to protect their health and the health of their family, by stopping use of vaping products. We want residents to know that vaping is not worry-free.”
In addition, the National Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine has found conclusive evidence that in addition to nicotine, most e-cigarette products contain and emit numerous toxic substances.
Healthcare providers should report possible cases of vaping-associated illness to the Upstate Poison Control Center at 800.222.1222. The Center can also help determine the need for product testing and provide instructions.
As of Sept. 12, 2019, the state Department of Health issued emergency regulations under Public Health Law that now require the posting of warning signs on the dangers of vaping by all smoke and vaping shops or entities in the state that sell vaping products. For more information, visit health.ny.gov/prevention/tobacco_control/campaign/e-cigarettes/.