November 11th, 2019 by WCBC Radio

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. But officials said Friday that this is more direct evidence that the chemical may be to blame. More than 2,000 Americans who use electronic cigarettes have gotten sick this year, and at least 40 have died. In Maryland, health officials have tallied 15 vaping-related illnesses, with no fatalities.  Jennifer Cofer is the Director of the End Tobacco Program at MD Anderson. She tells WCBC News that although there are now some answers- there are still serious concerns with vaping….