New Mexico
New HIV case linked to $100 ‘Vampire facial’ procedure at unlicensed New Mexico spa
A person recently diagnosed with HIV is believed to have contracted the virus during a “vampire facial” procedure at a since-shuttered New Mexico spa.
The former customer’s only self-reported HIV exposure risk was the special vampire or PRP facial — in which a person’s blood is drawn and then parts of the blood are reinjected into the skin via micro-needling — from VIP Spa in Albuquerque in 2018, the New Mexico Department of Health said.
The spa was shut down in September 2018 after the DOH and the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department found it had been conducting business in a way that risked the spread of blood-borne infections such as HIV.
Performing vampire facials requires a medical license, and the spa’s owner, Maria de Lourdes Ramos de Ruiz, only had a cosmetologist license, which had expired in 2013, state investigators found, according to the Albuquerque Journal.
Following the investigation, more than 100 former VIP Spa clients were tested for HIV and other infections between 2018 and 2019.
Two of the tests came back positive for HIV and those infected had received vampire facials.
The two people told investigators they paid $100 for the vampire facial, the Journal reported.
Due to the new 2023 HIV case, the health department has reopened its investigation into VIP Spa and has identified additional new HIV infections related to services received there.
Health officials did not specify how many new infections their probe discovered.
The department is recommending anyone who received any injected-related procedure, including a vampire facial or Botox, at VIP Spa be tested for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
Health officials said former clients who were tested before should be retested as well — even if they had tested negative previously.
“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,” said Dr. Laura Parajon, deputy secretary for DOH.
Ramos de Ruiz, the owner of the spa, pleaded guilty in June 2022 to five felony counts of practicing medicine without a license and was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison.
New Mexico
Playoff-Race closing: New Mexico United takes on Colorado Springs Switchbacks – New Mexico United
New Mexico United travels to Colorado Springs this Wednesday for a Western Conference showdown in the USL Championship playoff race.
The Black & Yellow currently sit fifth in the USL Championship, fighting for the postseason and will look to keep building momentum as the regular season winds down. With a few matches remaining, every point matters, and United will aim to deliver a strong midweek performance on the road.
Wednesday’s contest will be the third meeting between United and the Switchbacks FC this year. In their previous two encounters, United secured a home victory in June during the Jagermeister cup, and drew in the first encounter in June. This clash gives United a chance to claim the season series and strengthen their hold on a playoff spot.
Standout Performers: Archimède and Keller
Forward Luther Archimède continues to be a spark for United’s attack, bringing energy, pace, and aerial ability. His late equalizing goal against Monterey Bay highlighted his gift for delivering in clutch moments. The sixth man has contributed two goals in six games off the bench, proving his talent.
Defender Kipp Keller has been a rock at the back for United since arriving, with his calm composure, strength, and sharp defensive instincts. His leadership on the backline and ability to read the game have been crucial in keeping opponents on their toes. His presence will be needed to keep Colorado’s attackers in check.
Milestones in Sight: Tambakis
Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis is on the verge of making USL Championship history, needing just one more clean sheet to become the league’s all-time leader. After recording his 58th career shutout recently—tying the current record held by Evan Newton—Tambakis will have the opportunity to stand alone at the top when United takes the field Wednesday night in Colorado.
About Colorado Springs
The Switchbacks have fought their way into playoff contention with their mix of grit and attacking ability. On the Attacking side Marco Micaletto has been getting it done, leading the team in goals with six. On the back line, Matthew Mahoney provides a physical and clinical presence, leading the Switchbacks in almost every defensive category this season.
Looking Ahead
Following Wednesday’s trip to Colorado, New Mexico United return home hosting Lexington SC on Sunday at 4 PM MT. With the postseason right around the corner, the Black & Yellow remain focused on collecting crucial points and carrying the momentum into October.
Get tickets HERE
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