Sydney Woman in Intensive Care After Suspected Botulism from Home Cosmetic Injection

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A 51-year-old woman in Sydney remains in intensive care at Westmead Hospital following a suspected case of botulism, which is linked to an unregulated anti-wrinkle injection received at a home in Guildford. The incident occurred on January 11, and the woman was initially admitted to Auburn Hospital before her transfer to the intensive care unit on Saturday.

In response to this alarming case, New South Wales Health has issued an urgent alert, advising the community to seek cosmetic procedures only from authorized practitioners to avoid serious health risks, including possible death. Dr. Jeremy McAnulty, executive director of health protection at NSW Health, emphasized the importance of receiving injections under the supervision of qualified health professionals, warning that botulism, while rare, can be fatal.

Symptoms of botulism can manifest as much as two weeks after receiving injections and can include muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, drooping eyelids, blurred vision, and breathing difficulties. Investigations are currently underway by NSW police in collaboration with medical authorities following the incident reported to Cumberland Police Area Command.

The Australian facial injectables industry is valued at approximately $4.3 billion, with expectations of significant growth in the coming years. While injections require a valid prescription, those administering them may not be required to undergo specific training in cosmetic injectables beyond their general health qualifications.

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