Oregon confirms fifth vaping illness case

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — State health officials say another Oregonian has been struck by a vaping-related severe lung illness in a national outbreak that has killed one Oregon resident and nearly killed at least one other.

The Oregonian/OregonLive reports the Oregon Health Authority made the announcement Tuesday and gave no other information, including what products they used, when they fell ill or whether they’re currently hospitalized.

Officials say nine people have died from the illness nationwide, including the Oregon victim. That person reportedly used e-cigarettes, or vape pens, with THC, the psychoactive chemical in marijuana. Another Oregon victim reported vaping the nicotine e-cigarette Juul.

A U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention official told the U.S. Congress she believes “hundreds more” lung illnesses have been reported to health authorities since Sept. 19, when the agency put the tally at 530 confirmed and probable cases.