Sen. Richard Blumenthal says he wants stronger federal measures to combat the growing vaping epidemic.

Blumenthal, Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim and local health officials made the announcement in Bridgeport.

"We want to protect our children from the dangers of vaping," said Ganim. "This is a huge health challenge for this next generation and we stand together to get that message out and to protect our children and your children."

They will hold a vaping forum at Fairchild Wheeler High School Thursday -- one week after a Connecticut resident died from vaping.

"It is hospitalizing, even killing people, all around the United States and now, as of Thursday, for the first time here in Connecticut," said Blumenthal.

Studies at Yale University find that chemical reactions between flavor compounds and other ingredients can cause breathing problems.

There will also be a vaping forum at Central High School Tuesday.