Another vaping-related death announced by MDHHS

On Jan. 10, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced the third death associated with the outbreak of vaping-related lung injuries in the state. MDHHS was notified about the passing of an adult male on Dec. 19 but they didn’t release any more information about the victim.

“The tragic death of yet another Michigan resident is a reminder that this outbreak continues,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health for MDHHS. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family. I urge people not to use THC-containing e-cigarettes or vaping products until the specific cause of these vaping-related severe lung injuries being reported nationwide has been identified. To help with this investigation, we remind health care providers to report patients who may have this condition to their local health department.”

MDHHS is working closely with the CDC and the Federal Food and Drug Administration to get additional information that can help identify the ingredients in the vape materials that are making people sick.

Associated Press wrongly identifies meth trafficker as former GVSU professor

A former University of Iowa professor was sentenced to 85 months in federal prison for intent to sell methamphetamine near a school. Randall Mark Gilbert, 61, was initially identified by the Associated Press as a former professor at Grand Valley State University.

However, a report from Mlive contradicted this report, saying that they contacted GVSU and they had never heard of Gilbert. He was arrested and released on bond, and threatened the girl that he suspected reported him with a knife. The Associated Press has since corrected their mistake.

Huge fires tear through Australia as the new year begins

In January 2020, wildfires have torn through Australia, causing major damages to the continent. According to CNN, the New South Wales police have filed charged against 24 people for deliberately starting bush fires and have taken legal action against 183 people for fire-related offenses since since November.

The fires are even worse this year than usual because the continent is experiencing its worst drought in decades. Although the fires have been very bad, Australia is only just entering its summer season. Many people have donated to helping the cause already.