:quality(75)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/elcomercio/RIEWIX2A2JBTDER62OLQUNCVRE.jpg)
In the United States, health officials raised concerns on Tuesday about counterfeit Botox injections that have caused illness in 22 individuals. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), half of these individuals have been hospitalized, prompting the agency to issue a warning to healthcare professionals. The cases began surfacing in early November and have been reported in 11 states. The CDC attributed the cause to the administration of injections by unlicensed or untrained individuals in unofficial settings such as homes or spas, with many receiving the injections for cosmetic purposes.
Six people were treated for suspected botulism, a serious illness caused by botulinum toxin that can result in symptoms such as double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and breathing issues. Health officials emphasized the importance of receiving injections only from licensed professionals and encouraged individuals to report any suspicious products.
The CDC recommended that healthcare providers be vigilant when administering Botox and other injectables, as counterfeit products are becoming increasingly common. They also advised patients to only purchase injectables from reputable sources and to always verify that their providers are licensed and trained before undergoing any treatments.
The article was reviewed by Science X’s editorial team and adheres to their editorial standards and policies. It features fact-checked information, credibility from a reputable news agency, and proofreading for accuracy. This article maintains all rights reserved by The Associated Press in 2024. Permission is required for publishing, broadcasting, rewriting, or redistributing this material on any website or social media platform without prior consent from the original publisher.
In conclusion, it is crucial for individuals seeking cosmetic procedures involving injectables to ensure they receive treatments from licensed professionals who adhere to ethical standards of practice. Healthcare providers must remain vigilant when administering these treatments to avoid harm caused by counterfeit products. By working together, we can protect public health and ensure that patients receive safe and effective care.
