According to Illinois health officials, a patient who had severe lung disease died, which could be the first death in the United States related to the possibility of smoking. The Illinois Department of Public Health did not disclose the identity of the person.
The agency said at least 22 people, aged 17 to 38 years old, developed some kind of respiratory illness after fanning themselves or using electronic cigarettes. Twelve other cases are under investigation.
Cases of respiratory illness related to vaping have been reported in Illinois, Chicago and Champaign. Affected individuals had symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath and tiredness. Some also had vomiting and diarrhea. The symptoms worsened for days or weeks before going to the hospital.
