Welcome to the Vape Crisis Task Force (VCTF)

Vaping flavored e-liquid from an electronic cigarette

The Vape Crisis Task Force was established in response to the outbreak of E-cigarette or Vaping product use-Associated Lung Injury (EVALI) and other vapor-related lung injuries that emerged as a significant public health concern. Here’s a breakdown of the task force and its response:

Formation and Purpose

• Established: The task force was created in 2019 during the peak of the EVALI outbreak.
• Objective: To address the sudden rise in lung injuries linked to vaping products, particularly those containing THC and nicotine, and to protect public health through coordinated action.

Key Actions and Responses

1. Investigation and Data Collection:

   • CDC Involvement: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) played a central role in investigating the cause of EVALI, collaborating with state and local health departments to gather data.
   • Case Monitoring: The task force tracked cases of lung injuries, collecting information on the products used by affected individuals to identify common factors.
   • Chemical Analysis: Laboratories analyzed vaping products, particularly those obtained from the black market, to detect harmful substances.

2. Identification of the Cause:

   • Vitamin E Acetate: The task force identified vitamin E acetate, a thickening agent often used in illicit THC vaping products, as a primary cause of EVALI. This substance, when inhaled, was found to interfere with normal lung function, leading to severe respiratory issues.
   • Public Warnings: The CDC issued warnings to avoid using vaping products containing THC, particularly those obtained from informal sources, and to avoid using any vaping products containing vitamin E acetate.

3. Regulatory Actions:

   • FDA Involvement: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took regulatory actions to monitor and control the production and distribution of vaping products, particularly focusing on flavored e-cigarettes and products marketed to youth.
   • Product Seizures: Enforcement actions included seizing counterfeit or illegal vaping products that were suspected to contain harmful substances.
   • Bans and Restrictions: Some states implemented temporary bans on the sale of flavored e-cigarettes and THC vaping products until more was known about the causes of EVALI.

4. Public Awareness Campaigns:

   • Educational Initiatives: The task force launched public health campaigns to educate the public, especially young people, about the risks associated with vaping, particularly with unregulated products.
   • Healthcare Provider Alerts: Healthcare providers were informed of the symptoms of EVALI and encouraged to report cases and provide appropriate treatment.

5. Ongoing Monitoring and Research:

   • Continued Surveillance: The task force continues to monitor new cases of EVALI and other vaping-related injuries, updating guidelines and safety recommendations as new data emerges.
   • Research Support: Funding and support were provided for research into the long-term effects of vaping and the development of safer alternatives.

Outcomes and Current Status

• Decline in EVALI Cases: Following the identification of vitamin E acetate as a primary cause and the subsequent regulatory actions, the number of EVALI cases has significantly decreased.
• Regulatory Changes: The FDA has continued to tighten regulations around vaping products, including requirements for pre-market approval and restrictions on flavors and marketing practices.
• Ongoing Public Health Efforts: The task force remains active in ensuring the safety of vaping products and educating the public on the potential risks, with a focus on preventing another crisis.

Challenges and Considerations

• Market Shifts: The ongoing challenge of regulating an evolving market, including the rise of synthetic nicotine and new vaping products, requires adaptive strategies.
• Youth Vaping Epidemic: Addressing the high rates of youth vaping remains a priority, with efforts focused on preventing initiation and promoting cessation among teens.

In summary, the Vape Crisis Task Force has played a critical role in identifying the causes of EVALI, implementing regulatory and public health measures to mitigate the crisis, and continuing to monitor and respond to the risks associated with vaping.