NEW YORK (1010 WINS/AP) -- U.S. health officials are reporting a breakthrough in their investigation into the cause of an outbreak of vaping illnesses.
A government lab found the same chemical compound in lung fluid from 29 patients.
The compound - vitamin E acetate - was previously found in vaping fluid used by many of those who got sick.
RELATED:But officials said Friday that this is more direct evidence that the chemical may be to blame.Vitamin E is safe as a vitamin pill or to use on the skin, but inhaling oily droplets can be harmful. It has recently been used as a thickener in vaping fluid, particularly in black market vape cartridges.More than 2,000 Americans who use electronic cigarettes have gotten sick this year, and at least 40 have died.
