U.S. health officials are warning about the dangers of counterfeit Botox injections that have resulted in over 20 people becoming ill. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), half of those affected have required hospitalization. The CDC issued a warning to doctors after cases were reported in 11 different states starting in early November.
The individuals who fell ill received the injections from unlicensed or untrained individuals, or in unauthorized settings such as homes or spas. Many of the patients sought out the injections for cosmetic reasons and ended up suffering serious consequences. Six people were treated for suspected botulism, a serious illness caused by botulinum toxin entering the bloodstream.
Botulism can lead to symptoms such as double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing, and can be fatal if left untreated. Health officials stressed the importance of only receiving Botox injections from licensed professionals to avoid the risks associated with counterfeit products.
The Associated Press Health and Science Department is supported by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the AP is responsible for all content produced. It is crucial for individuals to be aware of the risks associated with counterfeit Botox injections and to ensure that they are only receiving treatment from trained and licensed professionals to prioritize their safety and wellbeing.