B.C. reports first probable case of vaping-related illness

    1 of 1 2 of 1

      Over a month after Canada reported its first case of a vaping-related lung illness, British Columbia has found its first probable case.

      Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry confirmed the case, according to a B.C. government news release issued on October 16.

      Several other investigations are underway that might also qualify as a probable or confirmed vaping-related illness. On October 11, CBC News stated that six potential cases had been reported since June. 

      On September 19, Dr. Henry issued a notice requiring physicians to report any patients who are exhibiting symptoms according to the national case definition.

      The definition includes patients who report vaping using e-cigarette devices, related products, or other means of inhaling a range of products up to 90 days prior to the onset of symptoms. It also includes patients who have pulmonary infiltrates on x-ray imaging, and whose illnesses aren’t attributed to other causes.

      All reports will be submitted to the B.C. Centre for Disease Control and will be investigated by public health officials. Probably or confirmed cases will be reported publicly, with age, gender, and location kept confidential.

      At the end of September, Canada’s first case of a severe lung illness linked to vaping was reported in Quebec. New Brunswick has had two probable cases. 

      You can follow Craig Takeuchi on Twitter at @cinecraig or on Facebook

      Comments