A sixth person has died from an outbreak of a lung disease that has been linked to vaping in the US.
The unidentified patients was taken to hospital and their condition declined rapidly before they died at a hospital in Kansas.
It has led to health experts to urge people to quit.
Kansas Department of Health and Environment secretary Lee Norman said: ‘It is time to stop vaping.
‘If you or a loved one is vaping, please stop. The recent deaths across our country, combined with hundreds of reported lung injury cases continue to intensify.’
The latest patient was over the age of 50 and also had a history of underlying health issues.
However, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say there have been 450 potential cases of lung disease linked to vaping across 33 states.
The agency says no evidence of infectious diseases have been identified, meaning the illnesses are likely associated with chemical exposure.
It says no specific substance or product has been linked to all cases, though many cases involve people who reported vaping THC, marijuana’s high-inducing chemical.
Health officials said they do not have detailed information on what specific e-cigarette products were used by the deceased patient in Kansas.
Governor Laura Kelly said: ‘Our sympathies go out to the family of the person who died.
‘Health officials are working hard to determine a cause and share information to prevent additional injuries. As that work continues, I urge Kansans to be careful.
‘Don’t put yourself in harm’s way, and please follow the recommendations of public health officials.’
The state has had six reports associated to the national lung disease outbreak, including three which they believe to be confirmed or probable cases. The remaining three are still under investigation.
‘It is time to stop vaping.’ KDHE Secretary Lee Norman said.
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