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Over a dozen confirmed cases of severe lung diease associated with vaping

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The number of cases of suspected respiratory illnesses connected to vaping is rising in Michigan.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services says there are now a dozen confirmed or probable cases of severe lung disease associated with vaping.  The department is investigating another 14 possible cases.

Nationwide, 530 people have been diagnosed with vaping-related breathing illnesses, but the cause remains unknown. Eight deaths have been reported.

The U-S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says cases have been reported in 38 states and one U.S. territory. The total number of illnesses is up from 380 a week ago.

All patients had used an electronic cigarette or other vaping device.

Two-thirds of the cases involved 18- to 34-year-olds. Most are men.

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005.