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Cases of young adults in Iowa with a history of vaping and then developing respiratory illnesses have been observed by the Iowa Department of Public Health. According to IDPH, Iowa has had four cases of patients in their early to mid-20s who report vaping prior to becoming ill. The cases are under investigation and three of the patients reported using vaping products that contain THC.

Several other states have had recent cases of severe respiratory illness among teenagers and young adults with a history of vaping. Symptoms include cough, fatigue, dizziness, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Some patients have required intensive care.

IDPH is asking health care providers to look out for severe respiratory illness cases among teens and young adults, and to ask about vaping and e-cigarette use. IDPH advises that youth should be discouraged from using vaping and e-cigarette products as the long-term health impacts for youth using these products are unknown. Patients with a history of vaping who are experiencing breathing problems should seek medical care.