Nine possible cases of lung illness associated with the use of e-cigarettes have been reported to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
Two of the cases have been confirmed; the remaining seven are under investigation, according to a DHSS news release. They are among 450 possible cases in the United States and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Symptoms among the patients include: cough, shortness of breath or chest pain; nausea, vomiting or diarrhea; fatigue, fever or weight loss; or elevated heart rate.
"Health officials around the nation are working hard to identify the cause of this outbreak, to prevent additional illnesses and protect health," said Dr. Randall Williams, DHSS director. "Missourians are encouraged to follow the CDC guidance to refrain from using e-cigarette products if you are concerned about these specific health risks, especially while the investigation is ongoing."
E-cigarette products should not be bought off the street nor modified by adding substances, such as THC or other cannabinoids, not intended for the device by the manufacturer, the news release cautioned.
Those concerned about their health after using an e-cigarette product should call the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222, DHSS officials said.
Regardless of the ongoing investigation, youth, young adults and women who are pregnant should not use e-cigarette products. Adults who do not currently use tobacco products should not start using e-cigarette products, DHSS officials said.