HIV Case Found in New Mexico: A recent case of HIV has been linked to a “vampire facial” that was performed at a spa in New Mexico, according to state health officials. Despite the spa having closed down years ago, the patient reported their only HIV risk exposure was through the vampire facial they received at the VIP Spa in Albuquerque back in 2018, as reported by the New Mexico Department of Health.
The individual in question tested positive for HIV in 2023, while the spa had shut its doors in September 2018 due to state inspectors identifying practices that had the potential to spread blood-borne infections such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C to clients. Interestingly, during the initial investigation, two other clients had also tested positive for HIV.
The Procedure: Vampire Facials
A vampire facial involves drawing a patient’s blood and then reinjecting specific components back into the face using micro needles. The procedure has been claimed to reduce pore size and improve fine lines, providing a rejuvenating effect on the skin.
Urgent Testing and Recommendations
In light of this recent development, the health department is strongly urging former clients who had received any form of injection-related service at the VIP Spa, including vampire facials and Botox injections, to undergo testing for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. While more than 100 former clients had already been tested during the initial investigation in 2018 and 2019, health officials recommend that former VIP clients be retested, regardless of their initial negative results.
“It’s very important that we spread the word and remind people who received any kind of injection-related to services provided at the VIP Spa to come in for free and confidential testing,” Dr. Laura Parajon, deputy secretary for the health department, said.
Additional Infections and the Indirect Connection
As of now, the health department has reported identifying additional cases of HIV infections that have a direct or indirect connection to the services provided at VIP Spa. However, specific details about the number of positive HIV cases and what qualifies as an indirect connection have not been disclosed. CBS News has reached out to the health department for further clarification.
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Popularity and Kim Kardashian’s Influence
Vampire facials gained significant popularity when Kim Kardashian shared an Instagram photo of herself undergoing the procedure at a different spa facility in 2013. However, she has since publicly expressed her opposition to the practice.
Conclusion of HIV Case Found in New Mexico
In June 2022, Maria Ramos de Ruiz, the former owner of VIP Spa, pleaded guilty to five felony counts of practicing medicine without a license, as reported by CBS affiliate KRQE. She was subsequently sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison.
In conclusion, the New Mexico health department’s findings of a new HIV case linked to vampire facials have raised concerns about the safety and regulation of cosmetic procedures. Former clients of VIP Spa are strongly advised to undergo testing for HIV and other blood-borne infections, even if they previously tested negative. By taking prompt action and spreading awareness, we can mitigate risks, protect public health, and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future.
Our Reader’s Queries
How many HIV cases are in New Mexico?
During 2021, a total of 4,017 individuals were living with HIV in New Mexico, and 149 individuals received a new diagnosis of HIV.
Is the new HIV case linked to the vampire facial?
The New Mexico Department of Health announced a recent HIV case connected to a “vampire facial” received at an Albuquerque spa that shut down in 2018. The 2023 patient’s only reported HIV risk was the “vampire facial” they received at VIP Beauty Salon and Spa in 2018.
Who is the owner of VIP spa New Mexico?
The proprietor of VIP Spa, Maria Ramos de Ruiz, emphasized the use of disposable needles, stating that she personally opens them in front of each client. Upwards of 100 individuals who previously patronized the establishment underwent testing as part of the initial inquiry conducted between 2018 and 2019.
Why is it called vampire facial?
A PRP facial rejuvenation, also referred to as a vampire facial, is an innovative skincare technique that utilizes your body’s natural healing abilities. This treatment, often dubbed a vampire facial, includes drawing your blood to boost the skin’s rejuvenation process.