Officials Report Increase in Poison Cases Involving E-Cig “Juice”

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota Poison Control System officials say they're seeing a sharp increase in the number of young people being harmed by e-cigarette liquid.

In 2012, the poison center received five reports of e-cigarette-related poisonings for people under 20 years old. Last year, that number jumped to 50.

State Health Commissioner Ed Ehlinger says none of the poisonings caused serious injury, but parents should be aware the liquid nicotine can pose a fatal risk. The electronic cigarette liquid has kid-friendly flavors, including cotton candy, bubble gum and grape.

The poisoning calls include instances where the e-juice has been swallowed, inhaled or come in contact with eyes or skin.

There are no state or federal laws requiring manufacturers of e-juice to disclose ingredients or require child-resistant packaging.