Counterfeit Botox administered in unlicensed settings causes severe reactions, prompting warnings from U.S. health officials.

U.S. health officials have issued a warning about counterfeit Botox injections that have led to 22 people falling ill, with half of them requiring hospitalisation. The alert, released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tuesday, follows incidents involving botulinum toxin administered by unlicensed or untrained individuals. These injections were given in settings like homes or spas, primarily for cosmetic purposes.

The outbreak, which began in early November, spans 11 states, with six individuals suspected of contracting botulism—a potentially deadly illness caused by botulinum toxin. Symptoms of botulism include blurred or double vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and in severe cases, trouble breathing. Health officials emphasised the importance of receiving Botox injections only from licensed medical professionals to prevent exposure to dangerous counterfeit products.

The CDC has urged the public to report any suspicious Botox products and warned that such counterfeit treatments could pose significant health risks.