Kemp, Health Department Issue Advisory After 2nd Vaping-Related Death In Georgia

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The Georgia Department of Public Health issued a health advisory about vaping and e-cigarette use Wednesday, Oct. 9, after the state confirmed a second person has died. / AP

The Georgia Department of Public Health has issued a health advisory following the death of a second person here in Georgia connected to vaping and the use of e-cigarettes. That person had a history of nicotine vaping and DPH does not yet know whether other substances were used.The Georgia Department of Public Health has issued a health advisory following the death of a second person here in Georgia connected to vaping and the use of e-cigarettes. GPB’s Ellen Eldridge reports.

The advisory issued Wednesday serves to notify residents about the potential hazards of vaping, especially among adolescent and young users.

Gov. Brian Kemp said the safety of Georgians is his top priority.

"We are asking convenience stores, vape shops, and leaders in communities throughout Georgia to join us in raising awareness,” Kemp said in the news release about the advisory.

The number of vaping-associated lung injury cases in Georgia is now 14, including two deaths, and about 20 possible cases are under review. Cases range in age from 18 to 68 years, and 71% are male.

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The Georgia cases were people who had been hospitalized and developed pneumonia with no known infectious cause, DPH said.

Symptoms of vaping-associated lung injury, which worsen over time, include cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. People with a history of vaping who are experiencing breathing problems or any of these symptoms should seek medical care immediately.

The state’s Department of Education is also working with the governor’s office to raise awareness among young people.