Warning issued after 14 people have ‘adverse reaction’ to cosmetic jabs including eye drooping and double vision
13 June 2025, 14:04 | Updated: 13 June 2025, 18:04
Health officials have launched an investigation after a number of people suffered serious side effects after getting cosmetic jabs including eye drooping and double vision.
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The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said 14 people from County Durham and Darlington have had ‘adverse reactions’ following the cosmetic procedure.
Ten people so far have required treatment and clinicians in these areas are being advised to look out for warning signs in people who have recently had "botulinum toxin" injections.
Durham County Council is working with the UKHSA to investigate the cause.
The UKHSA said people have been reporting showing symptoms of botulism a few weeks after having the treatment.
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UKHSA official Joanna Darke said botulism was a rare infection which could be serious and could be caused by the toxins found in the jabs.
Anyone in the area who has recently had a cosmetic injection and was experiencing symptoms, such as slurred speech, should contact 111.
The health agency said its initial investigations suggested the issue was not due to contaminated products.
"There are effective treatments available," she said.
"Botulinum toxin" injections are commonly sold under the brand name Botox, the company that manufactures Botox said the jabs in question were likely couterfeit.
A statement from Botox's parent company said: "Allergan Aesthetics is aware of recent reports of suspected botulism in patients in County Durham & Darlington, UK who received injections of a product, being referred to as ‘botox’.
"Investigations are ongoing, and Allergan Aesthetics is working with the local authorities.
"Allergan Aesthetics suspect that the product administered is counterfeit, further underpinning the importance of ensuring you are acquiring a genuine product through reputable and trusted channels.
"Allergan Aesthetics’ priority is the health and safety of patients and all reports of counterfeit product are thoroughly investigated by our team and in conjunction with law enforcement and regulatory authorities."
