Following confirmation of Georgia's second vaping-associated death, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has issued a public health advisory on the risks of vaping and use of e-cigarettes.

“The safety of Georgians is my top priority," said Governor Kemp. "I applaud the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Georgia Department of Public Health for their tireless work to conduct research and inform the public about this serious issue. This public health advisory will notify Georgians of the potential hazards associated with adolescent vaping and encourage youth to take proactive steps to safeguard their health and well-being. We are asking convenience stores, vape shops, and leaders in communities throughout Georgia to join us in raising awareness.”

“The increasing numbers of vaping-associated lung injury and death are clear indications of the need for people to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendations and not vape,” said DPH Commissioner Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H. “The Georgia Department of Public Health is working closely with Governor Kemp and the Georgia Department of Education to provide education and awareness about the imminent health risks of vaping and e-cigarette use, especially among adolescents.”