Amid a multi-state outbreak of vaping-related illnesses, doctors on Long Island say they've seen several people hospitalized for acute lung illnesses linked to vaping.

Fortunately, many were treated and are recovering. Laurie Ann Davis, of Bethpage, says her 19-year-old son was one of them and is worried about the possible long-lasting health problems he could face.

"To think that, you know, there could be permanent damage to his heart or to his lungs scares me," she says.

The CDC is investigating and trying to figure out the cause of the crisis. So far, in New York state, dozens of people have gotten sick.

On Long Island, hospital officials have confirmed illnesses linked to vaping are rising.

Northwell Health Pulmonologist Dr. Ernest Vomero says whatever is being inhaled is causing inflammation in the lungs and asthma-like conditions.

Manufacturers claim e-cigarettes were intended to help smokers quit traditional cigarettes. But, within the last year, vaping among teenagers exploded, and health officials say young people who have never smoked started using e-cigarettes.

One Juul pod contains the same amount of nicotine found in 20 cigarettes, and officials say the flavors appeal to many young children and teenagers.

A statewide ban of most flavored e-cigarettes went into effect this week.

Most vape shop owners are fuming, saying the ban will choke their profits.

"Enforcement is always the best means necessary to stop an epidemic. Banning and prohibition, like I said, they do not work," says Matt Flex, who works at Vaporville.

As News 12 reported, vape shop owners will have two weeks to get the flavored pods off their shelves or they could face fines of up to $2,000 for each unit of flavored e-liquid.