October 1st, 2019 by WCBC Radio

WBAL reports the Maryland Department of Health issued a statement early Tuesday recommending users to refrain using all types of e-cigarette and vaping products as they investigate numerous cases of severe lung illnesses throughout the state.

Officials are urging that vaping and e-cigarette usage is a major public health concern, especially for youth and young adults, as it is still unknown what devices and products are causing people to become ill.

The MDH also reports cannabis, or THC, vape products obtained off the street could pose the most significant risk for individuals.

As of Oct. 1, there are a total of 20 reported cases of severe lung illness in Maryland and many more across the United States, according to officials.

Maryland's Tobacco 21 law goes into effect Oct. 1 and raises the age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21. The MDH said the goal of this law is to curb the use of tobacco and electronic smoking device use in youth and young adults