Three women in New Mexico have been diagnosed with HIV after receiving “vampire facial” procedures at an unlicensed medical spa, in what is believed to be the first documented cases of HIV transmission through a cosmetic procedure using needles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched an investigation into the clinic after discovering that the clinic had been reusing disposable needles intended for one-time use.
The “vampire facial” procedure, made popular by celebrities like Kim Kardashian, involves injecting plasma into the face using needles. Other popular cosmetic treatments, such as Botox and fillers, are often delivered using needles as well. The New Mexico Department of Health began investigating the spa in 2018 after a woman tested positive for HIV with no known risk factors. The spa was closed in the fall of 2018 and the owner was prosecuted for practicing medicine without a license.
This incident highlights the importance of requiring infection control practices at businesses offering cosmetic procedures with needles. Proper record keeping is also crucial in cases like this, as poor record keeping slowed down the investigation and made it harder for health officials to follow up with clients who may have been affected.
As more and more people turn to cosmetic procedures to enhance their appearance, it is essential for businesses to prioritize the safety and well-being of their clients. The CDC’s investigation into this case serves as a sobering reminder of the potential risks of receiving treatments at unlicensed or unregulated facilities.
“Social media scholar. Reader. Zombieaholic. Hardcore music maven. Web fanatic. Coffee practitioner. Explorer.”