Older age groups now included in investigation into lung damage linked to vaping

WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- More cases of people reporting severe lung damage after vaping are under investigation in Wisconsin. 

Health officials with the state say there are 12 confirmed cases, including in Dodge, Door, Kenosha, Racine, Walworth, Waukesha, and Winnebago Counties. Initially, the cases only included teens and young adults, but now the Department of Health Services (DHS) says they have confirmed cases in older age groups. 

Another 13 cases are still under investigation. In all of the cases, the patients recently vaped or "dabbed" which is vaping marijuana oils, extracts, or concentrates. 

Some of the symptoms patients experienced include shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, a cough, and weight loss. 

Officials with DHS say the severity of the disease has varied among patients, with some needing assistance to breathe. While patients have improved with treatment, it is not known if there will be long-term health effects. People should contact their doctor with any concerns about these symptoms.

DHS says as their investigation continues, they are working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and coordinating with other states to make them aware of the situation so they are prepared if they have reports of similar cases.

People can learn more about e-cigarettes and vaping products, including what they look like and how to talk to kids about them, at Tobacco is Changing. There are FDA-approved medications to help tobacco users quit. Call 800-QUIT NOW for free help.

The latest updates on this disease investigation are posted on the DHS Outbreaks and Investigations page.

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