CHICAGO — The Illinois Department of Public Health is warning healthcare providers to be on the lookout for cases of illness resembling botulism, a disease that can cause muscle paralysis after a cluster of cases in LaSalle County.
According to the IDPH, two people in LaSalle County reported experiencing symptoms resembling botulism, which included blurred vision, a drooping face, feelings of fatigue, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. In both cases, the patients had received injections from a nurse in LaSalle County who was working outside of her authority, according to the IDPH. Officials said the injections could have been Botox or a counterfeit version of the cosmetic.
“Illinois residents should exercise caution when considering cosmetic treatment,” IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said. “Receiving these treatments in unlicensed, unapproved settings can put you or your loved ones at serious risk for health problems. Please only seek cosmetic services under the care of licensed professionals trained to do these procedures and who use FDA-approved products. If you are experiencing any health problems after a recent cosmetic treatment, please contact your healthcare provider immediately for help and assistance.”
According to IDPH officials, another cluster of botulism-like cases was spotted in Tennessee, as well. The IDPH and the Tennessee Department of Public Health are in contact with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Federal Drug Administration regarding the outbreaks.
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