Botulism Cluster In IL Linked To Botox

LASALLE COUNTY, IL — Health officials are warning medical facilities to be on alert for patients with symptoms of botulism after two cases were identified in people who received injections of Botox or a similar counterfeit product in LaSalle County, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

State and local authorities are investigating, the agency said, adding a similar cluster was reported by the Tennessee Department of Health.

The two people who fell ill in Illinois reported blurred vision, droopy face, fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and hoarse voice following injection, the department said. Both patients required hospitalization after receiving injections from a licensed nurse performing work outside of her authority.

“Please only seek cosmetic services under the care of licensed professionals trained to do these procedures and who use FDA-approved products,” department Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said in a news release. “If you are experiencing any health problems after a recent cosmetic treatment, please contact your healthcare provider immediately for help and assistance.”

People can check if a professional is licensed with the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation by using its license lookup tool and should report unlawful provision of medical services or suspected wrongdoing by filing a complaint with the agency.

Botulism is a rare but potentially deadly illness characterized by muscle paralysis. It is caused by a nerve toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum found in nature, which is an ingredient in Botox and other similar substances used for cosmetic reasons. The purified form of the botulinum toxin is approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration for use by licensed healthcare providers as a cosmetic treatment.