Maine Records First Case of Lung Illness Related to Vaping

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention is reporting the state's first case of acute lung illness related to the use of e-cigarettes.

The CDC said the case involves an adult who reported symptoms similar to those identified in other states. Symptoms have included cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever and abdominal pain.

All told, more than 500 people have been diagnosed with breathing illnesses after using e-cigarettes and other vaping devices in the U.S.

Dr. Nirav Shah, Maine CDC director, said the case highlights the risks and uncertainty about the short- and long-term effects of vaping. He said people who do not vape should not start and those who are vaping should "seriously consider the health risks."