St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - Minnesota Health officials are reporting two more vaping-related deaths.

The State Department of Health says, two people, both over 50-years-old, died in September from complications due to severe lung injuries. Investigators determined one of the patients vaped a number of products including illegal THC. The health department says the second patient had severe underlying health conditions and is believed to have vaped unspecified products.

“We hope we do not have any more deaths linked to this investigation,” Dr. Lynfield said. “However, based on what we know about other patients, the seriousness of the injuries and the fact that we continue to see new cases, it is possible we will have more deaths.”

The state’s first vaping-related death was reported in early September. So far, Minnesota has recorded 73 confirmed or probable cases of severe lung injuries associated with vaping. The health department is also reviewing another 32 cases. Officials say about half of the patients have ended up in intensive care. Nationwide, there have been nearly 1300 cases and 26 confirmed deaths.

Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm says almost all of the people stricken by the condition in Minnesota reported a history of frequently vaping illegal cannabis products. She also stresses health officials cannot guarantee the safety of any vaping products.

 

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