Kentucky health officials are currently investigating 25 lung injury cases linked to vaping, while injured “vapers” continue filing personal injury lawsuits against JUUL and other e-cigarette producers. WKYT reported last week that the Kentucky Department for Public Health is currently investigating 25 cases of lung illnesses associated with vaping and e-cigarette use. One of the cases is directly linked to vaping, while the other four are probable. In the confirmed case, a Kentucky man in his early 30s used vaping devices containing nicotine but no THC or synthetic CBD (cannabinoid). Meanwhile, reported cases of people suffering from lung injuries and dying from vaping keep making headlines. At least 26 people have died in 49 states, while there have been at least 1,000 confirmed and probable cases of vaping-related injuries. If you believe that your respiratory illness or other health complications are linked to vaping use, speak with a Lexington personal injury lawyer from Roberts Law Office.

Kentucky Health Officials Warn of ‘Relatively Unknown’ Effects of Vaping

Kentucky health officials issued a warning to stay away from vaping products because the short and long-term effects of using vaping devices are still “relatively unknown.” In his statement, Secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services Adam Meier warned that teenagers are “more likely to use black market products,” illegal products and drugs, and other harmful substances that contribute to the development of acute respiratory illnesses. The Kentucky Department for Public Health launched its investigations as the growing vaping panic continues to make national headlines. In the wake of reported injuries and deaths associated with vaping, victims have filed personal injury and product liability lawsuits to recover damages.

Vaping-Related Lawsuits Begin to Pile Up

As of October 8, the Centers for Disease Control estimated that nearly 1,300 vaping-related illnesses had been reported across the nation. Some states have begun issuing temporary bans on flavored or all e-cigarettes and vaping devices to deter what seems to be a full-blown epidemic. Earlier this week, Vice reported that the mother of a late teenager whose death is linked to vaping filed a lawsuit against JUUL, which dominates the U.S. vaping marketplace. The teen passed away due to “breathing complications” last year, and vaping may be to blame. JUUL has reportedly been subject to criminal probes and was accused of violating federal regulations regarding marketing practices. JUUL, which is owned in part by the Big Tobacco producer Altria, is also accused of targeting teenagers in its ads, though the company denies the allegations.

Symptoms of Vaping-Related Injuries

While authorities have yet to identify a specific vaping product or component that causes respiratory problems and lung illnesses, reports indicate that a large percentage of affected victims used THC vaping devices from the black market. Common symptoms of lung problems linked to vaping include:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Coughing
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Diarrhea
  • Weight loss

If you noticed any of these signs of vaping-related lung injuries, seek medical attention, and contact a Lexington personal injury lawyer. Here at Roberts Law Office, our attorney handles vaping-related claims and lawsuits across Kentucky to recover damages, including pain and suffering, on behalf of injured victims. Call at (859) 231-0202 to schedule a free consultation.