CDC Warns of HIV Risks in Cosmetic Procedures: Unsanitary Practices Expose Customers to Blood-Born Pathogens

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported three cases of women contracting HIV after receiving blood cell injections during cosmetic procedures. The first case was identified in 2018 at VIP Spa in Albuquerque, Mexico, where a woman received the Vampire Facelift treatment using her own blood. Despite denying high-risk behaviors, she was later diagnosed with HIV. This incident led to the New Mexico Department of Health offering free testing to all clients who had received treatments at the spa, which was subsequently shut down.

In 2019, two more cases of HIV infection were discovered among individuals who had received facial treatments at VIP Spa in 2018. One individual was diagnosed early on while the other was hospitalized with severe symptoms. An investigation by the CDC and New Mexico Department of Health found that the spa failed to have a proper operating license and did not implement appropriate safety measures, resulting in unsanitary practices such as unlabeled blood tubes stored near food and improperly handled syringes. The spa owner was convicted of multiple health code violations and sentenced to prison, potentially exposing 59 customers to HIV, including those who underwent the Vampire Facelift procedure.

The Vampire Facelift involves injecting platelet-rich plasma into the facial skin to improve its appearance. While some facilities use the client’s own blood to minimize risks, others source it from outside donors. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that there is limited evidence supporting the effectiveness of this procedure. It is crucial for cosmetic facilities offering injection services to follow strict protocols for infection control measures to prevent transmission of HIV and other blood-borne pathogens.

The CDC emphasizes that proper infection control measures are critical in cosmetic facilities offering injection services, as they can help prevent transmitting HIV and other blood-borne pathogens during these procedures.

In conclusion, it is essential for cosmetic facilities offering injection services to follow stringent protocols for infection control measures to ensure client safety when performing such procedures. It is also crucial for patients to be aware of potential risks involved in these procedures and consult with healthcare professionals before undergoing any treatment involving invasive procedures like injections or surgeries.