HELENA — State health officials have identified the first serious case of pulmonary disease associated with vaping in Montana.
According to a news release, the case was found in Yellowstone County in an individual with a history of vaping products with nicotine and THC, the active chemical in marijuana.
The person has only been identified as an individual in their 30's. Health officials say the person was hospitalized in August, but that they are now recovering at home.
According to health officials, there have been 530 confirmed and probable cases of lung disease connected to e-cigarette in 38 states. Severe pulmonary illness has been associated with eight deaths.
The majority of cases are in adults ages 18 to 34, with more than 15 percent cases being in people under the age of 18.
Montana’s first confirmed case adds to the growing number of cases in this national investigation.
“This is deeply concerning, especially given the rapid increase in young people using e-cigarettes,” said Governor Steve Bullock. “Montana is supporting the national investigation to determine what is making people sick, while also looking at options on how we can take action without waiting on Washington.”
The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control are encouraging people to discontinue use of any type of e-cigarette product until more information is known.
