US probe of vaping-related illnesses focuses on THC

By Mike Stobbe The Assoicated Press

5 years ago

In a Saturday, June 8, 2019, file photo, two women smoke cannabis vape pens at a party in Los A ... — In a Saturday, June 8, 2019, file photo, two women smoke cannabis vape pens at a party in Los Angeles. On Friday, Sept. 27, 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said more than three-quarters of the 805 confirmed and probable illnesses from vaping involved THC, the ingredient that produces a high from marijuana. (AP Photo/Richard Vogel)

NEW YORK — Health officials say their investigation into a recent outbreak of severe vaping-related illnesses is increasingly focused on products that contain THC.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday most people who got sick vaped THC, the ingredient that produces a high in marijuana.

A new study published by CDC found two-thirds who got sick in Illinois and Wisconsin said they vaped prefilled THC cartridges from one brand.

The investigation is ongoing. No single device, ingredient or additive has been identified.

The ailment has sickened at least 805 people, from 46 states and one U.S. territory. Thirteen deaths have been reported, from 10 states.

Three Clark County residents came down with severe respiratory illness linked to e-cigarette products, the Southern Nevada Health District says.

All three were hospitalized but now are recovering, the district said.

Two of the individuals reported using products with THC.