People in County Durham treated for suspected 'botulism' after cosmetic procedures
Several people from County Durham and Darlington are being treated for suspected botulism, after recent cosmetic procedures, involving what is commonly known as Botox.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging people to take precautions when seeking aesthetic treatments.
Botulism is a rare condition, but can be serious, and in some cases even life-threatening.
The symptoms include drooping of the eye lids, blurred or double vision, difficulty swallowing and slurred speech.
The UKHSA has said investigations are ongoing into the recent cases in Durham, but evidence so far does not suggest that the product used had been contaminated.
Dr Joanne Darke from the UKHSA has said anyone with symptoms should seek advice and treatment.
She said: "Botulism is a rare infection, but it can be serious. It is caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. These toxins (but not the bacteria) are the active ingredient in Botox and similar products. There are effective treatments available.'
'If you have had a recent botulinum toxin treatment and are having symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or drooping eyelids, contact NHS 111 for further advice and seek treatment.
"It is important to get checked out so you can have peace of mind and treatment if needed. It is also important to go to a licensed practitioner.'
Meanwhile, Amanda Healy, the Director of Public Health in County Durham, has said her team is "working closely" with colleagues at UKHSA to ensure "all possible steps are taken to prevent more people becoming unwell."
The UKHSA is advising anyone considering cosmetic treatments to follow a simple checklist:
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