2019-2020 vaping lung illness outbreak

An outbreak of lung illness associated with vaping in the United States

The 2019–2020 vaping lung illness outbreak, also known as EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping product use-Associated Lung Injury), was a significant public health crisis in the United States. The outbreak was characterized by a sudden increase in cases of severe lung illness linked to the use of vaping products.

Background

Vaping, the act of inhaling vapor produced by an electronic cigarette or similar device, became increasingly popular in the 2010s. These devices typically contain a battery, a heating element, and a cartridge or tank filled with liquid, which may contain nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals. While initially marketed as a safer alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes, concerns about the safety of vaping products began to emerge.

Outbreak

The outbreak began in mid-2019, with the first cases reported in April. By February 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) had identified over 2,800 cases of EVALI across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and two U.S. territories. There were 68 confirmed deaths attributed to the illness.

Symptoms

Patients with EVALI typically presented with respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea were also common, as well as systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and weight loss.

Causes

Investigations by the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified vitamin E acetate, an additive in some THC-containing vaping products, as a primary cause of the outbreak. Vitamin E acetate is used as a thickening agent in some illicit vaping products and was found in the lung fluid of many patients with EVALI.

Response

The outbreak prompted a significant public health response. The CDC issued warnings against the use of vaping products, particularly those containing THC. Many states implemented bans or restrictions on flavored vaping products, and there was increased scrutiny of the vaping industry.

Prevention

To prevent further cases of EVALI, public health officials recommended avoiding the use of vaping products, especially those obtained from informal sources or modified in any way. The CDC also advised against adding any substances not intended by the manufacturer to vaping products.

Impact

The outbreak had a profound impact on public perception of vaping, leading to increased regulation and a decline in the use of vaping products among youth. It also highlighted the need for more research into the long-term health effects of vaping.

Also see

• Electronic cigarette
• Nicotine addiction
• Public health
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Food and Drug Administration