At least 8 Brits left needing urgent hospital attention after beauty procedure

Over eight Brits from northern England have required urgent medical attention after contracting a rare and serious infection from botulinum toxin injections, according to reports. Cosmetic surgery patients in Durham and Darlington have self-reported to hospitals in the region with symptoms of botulism, an illness caused by a toxin attacking the body's nerves. Symptoms of the infection include blurred or double vision, difficulty swallowing or speaking, muscle weakness and drooping eyelids.

It can also cause breathing issues, muscle paralysis, and in the worst cases, death, according to guidance from the NHS. While the condition is only fatal in around 5 to 10% of cases, a rise in the number of infections reported in the County Durham area has put health officials on high alert for others presenting with symptoms.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reportedly been notified of the rise in cases, which is thought to be linked to cosmetic procedures carried out during a similar period several weeks ago, the Mirror reports. 

Health officials do not have evidence to suggest the infections were linked to contamination of the surgical equipment used.

Dr Joanne Darke, the UKHSA's Consultant in Health Protection, said: "Botulism is a rare infection, but it can be serious.

"There are effective treatments available - if you have had a recent treatment and are having symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or drooping eyelids, contact NHS 111 for further advice and seek treatment."

"It is important to get checked out so you can have peace of mind and treatment if needed," she added. "It is also important to go to a licensed practitioner."

Treatment for botulism includes antibiotics, neutralisation of the toxins through injections of antitoxins, and using mechanical ventilation to aid breathing.

Amanda Healy, director of public health in County Durham, said procedures which involve injecting botulinum toxin into muscles to reduce lines and wrinkles were becoming increasingly popular, putting patients at risk of health complications caused by cheap and unlicensed providers.

"Aesthetics procedures are becoming increasingly popular on the high street, and we recommend that anyone considering a treatment follows a simple checklist," she said.

"Make sure your practitioner is wearing PPE and washing their hands. They should carry out a pre-consultation, including an assessment of your medical history and be happy to discuss their qualifications.

"[And] they should also provide you with a consent firm on the risks for you to sign."

"We are working closely with colleagues at UKHSA to investigate the cause of these [latest] adverse reactions, and to ensure all possible steps are taken to prevent more people becoming unwell," Ms Healy added.