Idaho officials confirm two cases of vaping-related illness in the state

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BOISE, Idaho (AP) – Public health officials in Idaho have confirmed that two people in the state have developed a serious lung disease linked to vaping.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare announced Tuesday that the two Idaho patients, described as teenagers or young adults, are recovering.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there have been roughly 450 cases of the lung disease reported in at least 33 states so far, and as many as five people with the illness have died. All the cases involve people who used vapes or other electronic cigarette products.

Idaho health officials are asking health care providers to be alert for signs of respiratory illness in patients who use vaping products, and to report any cases to public health officials.

Symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Neighboring states have also reported cases, including one death in Oregon and reported illnesses in Utah and Montana.

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