Federal health officials revealed that three women were diagnosed with HIV after undergoing “vampire facial” treatments at an unlicensed medical spa in New Mexico. This marks the first documented cases of HIV transmission through a cosmetic procedure using needles, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Report from last week detailed an investigation into the clinic spanning from 2018 to 2023, indicating that the clinic reused disposable equipment meant for single use. While HIV transmission through unsterile injections is a known risk, this report signifies the first probable infections linked to cosmetic services.
Numerous popular cosmetic procedures, including Botox injections and lip fillers, involve the use of needles. The “vampire facial,” a platelet-rich plasma microneedling procedure, entails drawing blood from the client, separating its components, and injecting plasma into the face to rejuvenate the skin. Tattoos also necessitate needle usage.
The New Mexico Department of Health initiated an investigation into the spa in the summer of 2018 after a woman in her 40s tested positive for HIV despite having no known risk factors. She reported needle exposure during a procedure at the clinic that spring.
Following the launch of the investigation, the spa ceased operations in the fall of 2018, and its owner faced legal action for practicing medicine without a license.
The report underscored the importance of implementing infection control practices at establishments offering cosmetic procedures involving needles. It highlighted the challenges posed by inadequate record-keeping and emphasized the necessity for businesses to maintain comprehensive records for potential future client outreach.
Source:Loop News
