CDC suggests avoiding e-cigarettes as the 'vape lung' investigation continues

It's probably a good idea to stop vaping.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is urging people to "consider not using e-cigarette products" as it investigates whether vaping is linked to lung illnesses that led to the deaths of several people in recent weeks.

According to the CDC's latest report, its early findings suggest "serious illnesses associated with e-cigarette products point to clinical similarities among those affected."

The CDC said it's ruled out infectious disease as the cause of the lung illness-related deaths. The agency now believes chemical exposure from e-cigarettes are likely the cause of the deaths.

"We are committed to finding out what is making people sick," said Robert R. Redfield, MD, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "All available information is being carefully analyzed, and these initial findings are helping us narrow the focus of our investigation and get us closer to the answers needed to save lives."

Since the lung-related illness first started over the summer, the CDC has been involved in a multi-state investigation, working with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), states, health partners, and clinicians to find the possible root to the problems.

"As of today, more than 25 states have reported possible cases of lung illnesses associated with use of e-cigarette products (e.g., devices, liquids, refill pods, and cartridges)," states the CDC report.

In addition to suggesting people stop using e-cigarettes, the CDC also advises vapers to "monitor themselves for symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever) and promptly seek medical attention for any health concerns."

Furthermore, the CDC recommends not buying e-cigarettes products off the street or modifying them for uses not intended by the manufacturer.

In June, San Francisco voted unanimously to ban the sale and distribution of e-cigs.

"E-cigarettes are a product that, by law, are not allowed on the market without FDA review," said San Francisco City Attorney Dennis Herrera. "For some reason, the FDA has so far refused to follow the law. If the federal government is not going to act, San Francisco will."

Naturally, noted vape-maker Juul fired back saying the ban would push adult vapers to return back to arguably more deadly cigarettes.

"This full prohibition will drive former adult smokers who successfully switched to vapor products back to deadly cigarettes, deny the opportunity to switch for current adult smokers, and create a thriving black market instead of addressing the actual causes of underage access and use," said Juul spokesman Ted Kwong.

As more research is conducted into the effects of e-cigarettes on your health, expect the battle between e-cigarette companies such as Juul and government to continue to be an ugly battleground.