Latest news with #botulism
CNN
5 hours ago
- Health
- CNN
Dozens in northeast England report symptoms of potentially deadly botulism after getting Botox
Health officials in the UK are investigating reports of dozens of people suffering from a potentially life-threatening condition following Botox procedures in northeastern England, as well as allegations of the illegal sale of Botox-like products. The local trust of the UK's National Health Service (NHS) in the county of Durham put out an alert on June 13 about several people seeking medical attention after having adverse reactions to cosmetic procedures involving Botox. Since the incident first came to light last week, 28 individuals have reported symptoms of botulism after receiving cosmetic procedures, the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) told CNN in a statement Friday. Botulism is a life-threatening condition caused by toxins made by Clostridium botulinum bacteria that attack the nervous system and cause paralysis. 'These toxins (but not the bacteria) are the active ingredient in Botox and similar products,' Dr. Joanne Darke, a consultant in health protection at the UKHSA, said in the statement, adding that it is 'important to go to a licensed practitioner.' Iatrogenic botulism is a type of botulism that occurs when too much of the cosmetic form, Botox, is injected into a muscle. Botox is a leading cosmetic treatment for wrinkles, as well as for medical conditions such as migraines and excessive sweating. The UKHSA said the reactions reported have included symptoms of severe drooping of the upper eyelids, double vision, difficulty swallowing, slurred speech and lethargy. Other symptoms of botulism can include facial muscle weakness. Botulism requires immediate medical attention and is fatal in 5-10% of cases, according to the NHS website. While most people make a full recovery with treatment, which typically involves getting injections with antitoxins, without quick care, paralysis can spread to muscles used to control breathing. While investigations into the cause of the cases are ongoing, the UKHSA said that 'evidence so far does not suggest that the product used has been contaminated. Symptoms are being reported a few days up to four weeks after injection.' 'The practitioners associated with most of the reported cases are no longer carrying out these procedures,' said Dr. Simon Howard, a consultant in health protection at the UKHSA, in the statement. 'However, that does not mean that we may not see more cases as symptoms can take up to four weeks to develop although we are now seeing the number of cases coming forward decreasing which is encouraging news,' he continued. Howard advised people to ensure they take precautions when seeking aesthetic procedures and advised anyone with symptoms to seek medical attention. The UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) told CNN Friday that it is investigating 'allegations surrounding the illegal sale and supply of Botox-type products in the North-East, and want to reassure the public that we take such claims very seriously.' The agency encouraged people in the UK who believe they have had side effects from medicine or received falsified stock to report it to its Yellow Card program. 'Our Criminal Enforcement Unit works hard to identify those involved in the illegal trade in medicines and takes robust enforcement action where necessary. This can include criminal prosecution,' Dr. Alison Cave, chief safety officer at MHRA, said in the statement. 'Botulinum toxin (Botox) is a prescription-only medicine and should only be available in the UK under the supervision of a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional,' she continued. In the United States, a growing cluster of botulism cases linked to cosmetic injections was reported in Massachusetts earlier this month. The state's Department of Health said it was investigating 10 cases of suspected iatrogenic botulism all associated with Botox procedures performed at one spa, Rodrigo Beauty.
The Independent
6 hours ago
- Health
- The Independent
Sales of ‘fake botox' investigated after dozens of botulism cases
Regulators are urgently investigating the suspected illegal sale of fake botox after 28 cases of botulism were reported in North East England. Botulism, a rare and potentially fatal condition, typically sees only six cases annually across England, making the recent surge in Durham and Darlington highly unusual. All reported cases are linked to individuals who recently underwent cosmetic procedures, experiencing severe symptoms such as drooping eyelids, double vision, and difficulty swallowing. One patient, Nicola Fairley, described her forehead freezing within two hours of receiving what she believed was a stronger botox, indicating the rapid and adverse effects of the illegal substance. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are investigating, emphasizing that botulinum toxin is a prescription-only medicine and advising public caution.
CNN
6 hours ago
- Health
- CNN
Dozens in northeast England report symptoms of potentially deadly botulism after getting Botox
Health officials in the UK are investigating reports of dozens of people suffering from a potentially life-threatening condition following Botox procedures in northeastern England, as well as allegations of the illegal sale of Botox-like products. The local trust of the UK's National Health Service (NHS) in the county of Durham put out an alert on June 13 about several people seeking medical attention after having adverse reactions to cosmetic procedures involving Botox. Since the incident first came to light last week, 28 individuals have reported symptoms of botulism after receiving cosmetic procedures, the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) told CNN in a statement Friday. Botulism is a life-threatening condition caused by toxins made by Clostridium botulinum bacteria that attack the nervous system and cause paralysis. 'These toxins (but not the bacteria) are the active ingredient in Botox and similar products,' Dr. Joanne Darke, a consultant in health protection at the UKHSA, said in the statement, adding that it is 'important to go to a licensed practitioner.' Iatrogenic botulism is a type of botulism that occurs when too much of the cosmetic form, Botox, is injected into a muscle. Botox is a leading cosmetic treatment for wrinkles, as well as for medical conditions such as migraines and excessive sweating. The UKHSA said the reactions reported have included symptoms of severe drooping of the upper eyelids, double vision, difficulty swallowing, slurred speech and lethargy. Other symptoms of botulism can include facial muscle weakness. Botulism requires immediate medical attention and is fatal in 5-10% of cases, according to the NHS website. While most people make a full recovery with treatment, which typically involves getting injections with antitoxins, without quick care, paralysis can spread to muscles used to control breathing. While investigations into the cause of the cases are ongoing, the UKHSA said that 'evidence so far does not suggest that the product used has been contaminated. Symptoms are being reported a few days up to four weeks after injection.' 'The practitioners associated with most of the reported cases are no longer carrying out these procedures,' said Dr. Simon Howard, a consultant in health protection at the UKHSA, in the statement. 'However, that does not mean that we may not see more cases as symptoms can take up to four weeks to develop although we are now seeing the number of cases coming forward decreasing which is encouraging news,' he continued. Howard advised people to ensure they take precautions when seeking aesthetic procedures and advised anyone with symptoms to seek medical attention. The UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) told CNN Friday that it is investigating 'allegations surrounding the illegal sale and supply of Botox-type products in the North-East, and want to reassure the public that we take such claims very seriously.' The agency encouraged people in the UK who believe they have had side effects from medicine or received falsified stock to report it to its Yellow Card program. 'Our Criminal Enforcement Unit works hard to identify those involved in the illegal trade in medicines and takes robust enforcement action where necessary. This can include criminal prosecution,' Dr. Alison Cave, chief safety officer at MHRA, said in the statement. 'Botulinum toxin (Botox) is a prescription-only medicine and should only be available in the UK under the supervision of a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional,' she continued. In the United States, a growing cluster of botulism cases linked to cosmetic injections was reported in Massachusetts earlier this month. The state's Department of Health said it was investigating 10 cases of suspected iatrogenic botulism all associated with Botox procedures performed at one spa, Rodrigo Beauty.
The Independent
6 hours ago
- Health
- The Independent
Spike in potentially fatal condition linked to ‘fake botox' sparks urgent probe
Regulators are urgently investigating the suspected illegal sale of fake botox after dozens of botulism cases were reported in North East England. Botulism is a potentially fatal condition caused by a bacteria-produced toxin, which attacks the body's nerves and can cause paralysis of the muscles and respiratory system. It is extremely rare, with just six cases recorded across England in 2023-24. But – in the space of just a few weeks – 28 cases of botulism have now been reported in North East England, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) – which warned that more cases may yet come to light. The cases, most of which are in the Durham and Darlington areas, have all been reported by people who had recently undergone cosmetic procedures. Reactions have included severe drooping of the upper eye lids, double vision, difficulty swallowing, slurred speech and lethargy, according to the UKHSA. On one night in June, five of the people affected all ended up in the same A&E department in Durham, according to the BBC, which cited internal hospital communications in showing that the local stock of anti-toxin was nearly exhausted, forcing medics to request more from London as they 'braced' for more patients. One of the five patients, Nicola Fairley – a mother of four from Bishop Auckland, in County Durham – told the broadcaster that she had received anti-wrinkle injections in the past, paying £100 for three areas. But she then won a round of treatment from the same provider in a competition, using what she was told was a stronger type of botox and again had three areas injected, without realising the treatment was illegal. While genuine injections should take several days to start working, the 37-year-old said her forehead became 'frozen' within two hours. The business owner who gave Ms Fairley the injections has since apologised, she said, adding: 'I know she hasn't done this on purpose. I just don't know where people get it from – it's scary. 'There needs to be more rules and stricter guidelines on who can do it – not just anybody who can go and do a course and just do it. There's that many people who do it – it's part of your beauty regime like getting your nails done or your hair.' The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is now understood to be investigating the spate of cases. Dr Alison Cave, the agency's chief safety officer, said: 'Public safety is a top priority for the MHRA. Our Criminal Enforcement Unit works hard to identify those involved in the illegal trade in medicines and takes robust enforcement action where necessary. This can include criminal prosecution. 'Botulinum toxin (Botox) is a prescription-only medicine and should only be available in the UK under the supervision of a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional 'Buying Botox and other medicines from illegal suppliers significantly increases the risk of getting a product which is either falsified or not authorised for use in the UK.' Dr Simon Howard of the UKHSA said that agency was still investigating the cause of the cases, and said the practitioners associated with most of the cases were no longer carrying out the procedures. 'However, that does not mean that we may not see more cases as symptoms can take up to four weeks to develop although we are now seeing the number of cases coming forward decreasing which is encouraging news,' said Dr Howard. 'We will continue to work with our partners to reduce the public health risk and would advise people to make sure they take precautions when seeking aesthetic procedures. 'Anyone who has recently undertaken an aesthetic procedure, and is experiencing any of the symptoms listed, should contact NHS 111.' The Department for Health and Social Care said the government was looking into new regulations, with people's lives currently being put at risk by 'inadequately trained operators in the cosmetic sector'. 'We urge anyone considering cosmetic procedures to consider the possible health impacts and find a reputable, insured and qualified practitioner,' a spokesperson told the BBC.
BBC News
15 hours ago
- Health
- BBC News
Bishop Auckland mother among 27 'poisoned' by fake Botox
In recent weeks, 28 people in the north-east of England have been left with potentially fatal botulism after having anti-wrinkle injections believed to have been fake. Such reactions are usually so rare hospitals stock very little anti-toxin and they were in danger of running out. On one night in June five people were in an accident and emergency department (A&E) in Durham suffering from serious adverse effects of anti-wrinkle injections - Nicola Fairley was one of days of having what she was told was a Botox jab, but which turned out to be an illegal copy, her throat began closing up, an eye swelled shut and one side of her face started to droop. She could not smile, struggled to eat and swallow, felt exhausted and was desperate to 37-year-old mother of four from Bishop Auckland in County Durham told staff she had been given injections and was unwell."They got the doctor to see me within five minutes and started some tests there and then," Mrs Fairley the 28 people, mostly in the Durham and Darlington areas, who have found themselves in a similar position, four others ended up in the same hospital on the same night as Mrs an average year, the University Hospital of North Durham usually sees no cases at all of botulism that require treatment. Only six were recorded in the whole of England in being approached by the BBC the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has set up an investigation. Botulinum toxin is widely used to reduce facial wrinkles and treat muscle conditions. While cosmetic practitioners do not need to be licensed, the drug does. Only seven brands are licensed in the UK, with Botox the most well used correctly the amounts are small and side effects are rare. But unregulated toxin, or larger quantities, can attack the nerves and cause botulism, a potentially life-threatening condition that causes paralysis. Mrs Fairley had anti-wrinkle injections before, paying £100 for three areas, but then won a round of treatment from the same provider in a competition. She was told it was a stronger type of the toxin and again had three areas says she had no idea this treatment was two hours her forehead was "frozen", although genuine cosmetic injections should take several days to start working with the full effect visible after two weeks. Of those in A&E at the same time, some had used the same practitioner as Mrs Fairley. They were all diagnosed with botulism and one doctor told the group they had never seen that many people with the condition at the same is so rare, hospitals do not typically keep large quantities of the anti-toxin - made from horse blood - that is used to stop the toxin spreading further. North Durham was already trying to source anti-toxin drugs from other hospitals as there had been a spate of cases in the days before Mrs Fairley and the others arrived in A& an internal communication seen by the BBC, a hospital leader said: "We've just about exhausted all stock of the antitoxin from local holders (Newcastle, Carlisle and Leeds) and have 10 more coming from London." They were "bracing" themselves for more MHRA told the BBC it was investigating allegations surrounding the illegal sale and supply of fake "Botox-type" products in the North East. Chief safety officer Dr Alison Cave said the body's criminal enforcement unit "works hard to identify those involved in the illegal trade in medicines".Buying anti-wrinkle injections and other medicines from illegal suppliers significantly increased the risk of getting a product which is either "falsified or not authorised" for use in the UK, she said. An aesthetic doctor based in Newcastle, Steven Land, believes anti-wrinkle injections in three areas for less than £150 is very cheap and this could suggest the supplier was using an illegal toxin. Dr Land, who has also worked in A&E, said he was contacted weekly by "fake pharmacies" offering to sell him the toxins for such small amounts he "knows they're illegal". Genuine injections were "very safe if done properly" but called for the industry to be regulated, he said. As things stand it is not regulated at all, with anyone able to provide cosmetic injections."Your provider should be able to show you the product they are using and be happy to answer any of your questions - and have the answers," he Land said he had been fearing a botulism outbreak for years, noticing more and more businesses in the region offering injections that were suspiciously cheap. An investigation into the cause of the recent cases of botulism is being led by the UK Health Security Agency with partners including Durham County Council's public health team. Director of public health Amanda Healy said they were urging anyone with symptoms to seek treatment. An incident management team had been set up to deal with the issue and they were working out if the cause of these incidents of botulism was the "type of toxin used or the way it was used", she said. Mrs Fairley says the business owner who gave her the injections has apologised. "I know she hasn't done this on purpose," Mrs Fairley says. "I just don't know where people get it from - it's scary. "There needs to be more rules and stricter guidelines on who can do it - not just anybody who can go and do a course and just do it. "There's that many people who do it - it's part of your beauty regime like getting your nails done or your hair." What happened, and the continuing side effects, has put Mrs Fairley off having cosmetic injections again. She urges anyone considering it to ask questions about the product and make sure it has been properly prescribed. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said people's lives were being put at risk by "inadequately trained operators in the cosmetic sector" and said this was why the government was looking into new regulations."We urge anyone considering cosmetic procedures to consider the possible health impacts and find a reputable, insured and qualified practitioner," a spokesperson said. 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