Botulism fears over botox-linked cases in Leeds

Users of aesthetics treatments have been warned about the symptoms of botulism after a number of suspected cases in the Leeds area were linked to botox procedures.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said a small number of people had presented to NHS services around Leeds this week with signs of botulism following cosmetic treatments involving botulinum toxin, or botox.

Botulism is a rare infection caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria.

Reactions include severe drooping of the upper eyelids, double vision, difficulty swallowing, slurred speech and lethargy.

The UKHSA advised local clinicians to look out for botulism in people who may have had a recent aesthetic procedure, and to provide them with appropriate treatment, which can include giving them an antitoxin.

"Working with local authority partners and NHS services, the UKHSA is advising people to make sure they take precautions when seeking aesthetic procedures," the UKHSA said in a statement.

Dr Martin Bewley, consultant in health protection at the UKHSA, advised people who have recently had cosmetic produces done and who were experiencing symptoms to contact NHS 111 or go to A&E.

"It is important to get checked out so you can have peace of mind and treatment if needed," he said.

"It is also important to go to a licensed practitioner."

In the summer of 2025, the UKHSA recorded at least 38 cases of botulism poisoning linked to the use of unlicensed botox-like products.

Twenty-eight were in the north-east, with five victims presenting to A&E in Durham on one night in June. The cases were linked to fake anti-wrinkle injections.

In July, there were also four hospital admissions in the Peterborough area, and the city council launched an investigation into unlicensed botox practitioners believed to be operating in their own homes rather than from salons.

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