An investigation into the patients who have developed lung disease from vaping have found THC products, such as waxes and oils, to be prevalent in 89% of the cases, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services announced Thursday. The agency is working with the Food and Drug Administration to determine the contents of the specific vaping products.
As of Thursday, the department is aware of 32 cases in Wisconsin.
THC is the active ingredient in marijuana and the connection is based on interviews with patients, according to the DHS.
"Vaping cartridges containing THC may include chemicals or additives that are unknown, unregulated, and unsafe,” said Department of Health Services Secretary-designee Andrea Palm. “We strongly urge people not to vape.”
Ten counties in Wisconsin have reported cases of severe chemical pnumonitis or chemical pneumonia: Dodge, Door, Kenosha, Milwaukee, Portage, Racine, Walworth, Washington, Waukesha and Winnebago.
While the Department of Health Services continues to investigate all possible causes, residents are being strongly encouraged to not utilize any THC products containing e-liquid.
If you or anyone you know experience the following symptoms and have used vaping products, please contact your primary care physician immediately:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Anorexia
- Pleuritic chest pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
