As of October 8th, 2019, 1,299 vape product users have developed a condition now known as "Vaping-Associated Pulmonary Injury" or VAPI, and 18 deaths have occurred as a result of the illness. As the name implies, VAPI occurs in individuals who have used vaping products. Although THC products have been strongly correlated with development of the illness, 17% of patients with VAPI reported exclusive use of nicotine-containing products
source: https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2019/s1003-lung-disease.html
Please consider refraining from the lettuce for a while
While it is true that millions of people in the United States enjoy vaping and experience no adverse effects, the current epidemic *is* linked to vaping.
For the duration of any epidemic with an identified source, the safest course is to refrain from the associated activity.
If romaine lettuce is identified as the source of a deadly E. coli outbreak, you would probably stop eating romaine lettuce until the CDC gives an all-clear. In the same mindset, the CDC/FDA currently recommend that you refrain from vaping until the cause of VAPI is determined.
Some of you are going to eat the lettuce anyway
No judgment if you choose to continue vaping, but please monitor yourself for symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath, chest pain). If you have concerns about your health, seek medical attention. I recognize that can be a hard ask; many people (including me) endure illness and avoid accessing healthcare due to the financial cost, taking time off work, childcare issues, lack of access, etc. I can't address any of those things in a blog post, but I can ask that you please see a healthcare provider if you are experiencing symptoms that aren't getting better or symptoms that keep coming back.
More information on VAPI from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
For the Public: What You Need to Know
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease/need-to-know/index.html
Más información de los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades
Para el público: Lo que debe saber
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/spanish/enfermedad-pulmonar-grave/lo-que-necesita-saber/index.html
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