NM Department of Health investigating 20 vaping cases

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Department of Health is investigating 20 cases of individuals who were hospitalized with lung illness after using e-cigarettes or “vaping,” according to a release from the state.

The cases originate in eight different counties, including Curry and Quay, with no breakdown of how many cases are in each respective county. The patients range from 13 to 61 years old, with 13 of them requiring time in an intensive care unit.

Of the 20 patients, 13 have been interviewed with 10 reporting THC use and three reporting only nicotine use.

“Case numbers are rising in New Mexico and nationwide. That’s why the NMDOH continues to warn residents and discourage the use of any cartridges with THC because of the ease at which additional chemicals can be added to these types of cartridges,” said Department of Health Cabinet Secretary Kathy Kunkel. “People who have trouble breathing or experience chest pain after vaping should seek immediate medical attention.”

The state advises residents to avoid e-cigarettes and vaping products, with resources at: nmtupac.com/prevention