10 people have required treatment for adverse reactions to Botox jabs in County Durham
15:05, 13 Jun 2025Updated 15:05, 13 Jun 2025
10 people have required treatment after adverse reactions to Botox jabs(Image: Getty Images)
Several people from County Durham are being treated for suspected botulism. 14 people have presented to NHS healthcare settings in the county following adverse reactions after receiving cosmetic procedures involving botulinum toxin (sometimes branded as Botox), 10 of whom have required treatment.
Botulism is a rare condition that can be serious. Dr Joanne Darke, a UKHSA consultant, said that there are effective treatments available.
Symptoms of botulism can include drooping eyelids, blurred or double vision, facial muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), slurred speech, and breathing difficulties. Dr Darke said: “If you have had a recent treatment and are having symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or drooping eyelids, contact NHS 111 or A&E for further advice and seek treatment.”
Investigations are ongoing but the UKHSA says that evidence so far does not suggest that the product used has been contaminated.
Symptoms have been reported a few weeks after injections. Clinicians have been asked to look out for botulism in people who may have had a recent aesthetic procedure in order to provide them with appropriate treatment, including giving anti-toxin.
County Durham’s director of public health, Amanda Healy, said the council is working closely with the UKHSA and encouraged anyone displaying symptoms to contact NHS 111.
The UKHSA is also advising people to take precautions when seeking aesthetic procedures, with the following recommendations:
- 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.
- They should also provide you with a consent form on the risks for you to sign.