CDC is reportedly investigating several cases of illnesses resulting from Botox injections
The Centers for Disease Control are reportedly investigating several cases of Botox-related illnesses and will warn doctors in the United States about fake Botox injections after several people were hospitalized.
Health officials in Tennessee and Illinois said this week they were investigating cases of botulism-like illnesses that appeared to be linked to Botox injections administered in a non-medical setting.
There were four patients in Tennessee who reported symptoms consistent with botulism after receiving cosmetic injections, and two were hospitalized, the state health department reports. said in a statement last week. Officials said they believed the shots came from a counterfeit product.
Botulism is caused when a toxin attacks the body’s nerves and causes muscle weakness in the face, mouth and throat. Symptoms may include blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech and difficulty swallowing, according to the Tennessee Department of Health. A purified form of the bacteria that causes the condition is used in Botox and approved by the Food and Drug Administration. according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.
“Receiving these treatments in an unlicensed, unapproved environment could put you or your loved ones at serious risk for health problems. Please only seek cosmetic services under the care of licensed professionals who are trained to perform these procedures and use FDA-approved products,” said Sameer Vohra, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health. “If you are experiencing health concerns after a recent cosmetic treatment, please contact your healthcare provider immediately for help and assistance.”
Two people in Illinois were also hospitalized and reported botulism-like symptoms after receiving “Botox or a possibly counterfeit version of the product,” the Illinois Department of Public Health said in a statement. The agency said both patients received injections from a registered nurse in LaSalle County who performed the procedure outside her authority.