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Minnesota health officials suspect dozens of severe lung injuries are linked to vaping marijuana compounds.

More than 200 similar cases have been reported nationwide. Minnesota Department of Health Epidemiologist Stacy Holzbauer said officials have interviewed a dozen of the Minnesota victims.

“Those 12 have divulged that they've vaped THC, and the vast majority of them have also mentioned vaping nicotine products as well,” said Holzbauer.

15 confirmed or suspected cases of vaping lung damage in Minn.

Holzbauer said state and local labs are trying to test vaping materials that may be connected to the lung injuries, called chemical pneumonia in some cases.

“All of our cases who have reported using these THC products have reported buying them off the black market, so we have absolutely no idea what was inside these cartridges that they were vaping,” said Holzbauer. “We don't know what solvents or other ingredients were in there. And at this point we have no idea what's causing the illness.”

THC found in Wisconsin vaping cases that led to illnesses

Holzbauer said they're still hoping to hear from others who may have been sickened, but not sought medical care or been hospitalized.

What questions do you have about vaping in Minnesota? Tell us

Health

Tim Nelson

Author

The Minnesota Department of Health says nearly 30 such cases in Minnesota are among hundreds reported nationwide. Many cases seem to be linked to marijuana consumption.

Minnesota health officials say severe lung injuries linked to vaping THC

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