Updated

Public health officials are warning about the threat of synthetic marijuana after a rash of illnesses in southeast Georgia.

The Athens Banner-Herald reports that public health officials say a substance sold under the names "Crazy Clown" or "Herbal Madness Incense" is making people sick.

It's marketed as herbal incense, bath salts or "roll-you-own" tobacco. The substance also is call synthetic marijuana or spice.

Authorities say eight people had to be treated at hospitals after ingesting the substance around Brunswick late Thursday and Friday.

No one has been arrested, and police say they have to test the substance to determine whether it's legal.

The Department of Public Health says it's working with police to remove the items from stores.