The Incident

Two individuals in Illinois found themselves hospitalized after receiving injections suspected to be counterfeit Botox.

Alert from Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)

On April 8, the IDPH issued a warning to healthcare facilities regarding symptoms of botulism following injections. The victims, after receiving injections in LaSalle County, reported symptoms resembling botulism before hospitalization.

Director’s Caution

Dr. Sameer Vohra, IDPH Director, urged caution regarding cosmetic treatments. He emphasized the risks associated with receiving treatments in unlicensed settings and encouraged seeking services from licensed professionals using FDA-approved products.

Understanding Botulism

Botulism is a rare but severe illness caused by a toxin attacking the body’s nerves. Symptoms include weakness in facial muscles, difficulty breathing, and, in severe cases, death.

Reported Symptoms

The affected individuals exhibited symptoms such as blurred vision, facial drooping, fatigue, and difficulty breathing, consistent with botulism.

 Safety First

Instances of counterfeit Botox injections highlight the importance of caution in cosmetic procedures. Seek services from licensed professionals using approved products to mitigate health risks.