The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now investigating a series of hospitalizations across nine states, including Illinois, linked to mishandled or counterfeit Botox injections.

The CDC said that it, along with local health departments and the Food and Drug Administration, were investigating reports of 19 people who had experienced symptoms from botulism injections provided by those who may not have had the licensing or training to conduct the procedure, or who were doing so in a non-health care setting. In addition, the products provided may have been counterfeit or came from unverified sources.

More: Illinois issues warning on cosmetic procedures after 2 hospitalized with botulism symptoms

At least 60% of those affected were hospitalized and another four needed to receive a botulism anti-toxin out of concern that the toxin may have spread to areas outside the injection site.

What are the symptoms of botulism?

Those affected reported symptoms such as blurry or double vision, fatigue, difficulty breathing or swallowing, slurred speech, drooping eyelids, dry mouth and generalized weakness.

According to the CDC, all who reported symptoms were women between the ages of 25 and 59, with all but one receiving the injection for a cosmetic purpose.

Illinois and other stakes warn of mishandled or fake Botox

The Illinois Department of Public Health reported last week that at least two people in LaSalle County had reported similar symptoms following a procedure with a licensed nurse acting outside her professional authority. They also warned that medical facilities needed to be on the lookout for others with the same condition.

Other states affected include Colorado, Florida, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee and Washington.

The CDC recommends that people looking to receive Botox injections verify if the medical facility they choose has those licensed to provide Botox injections and if the product provided is approved by the FDA. They also ask that people experiencing symptoms of botulism to contact their medical provider or go to the hospital immediately.

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