Three Women Diagnosed with HIV After Receiving Vampire Facials at Unlicensed New Mexico Spa
In a shocking turn of events, three women have been diagnosed with HIV after receiving vampire facials at an unlicensed medical spa in New Mexico. This marks the first documented cases of people contracting the virus through cosmetic services using needles.
Vampire facials have gained popularity in recent years for their supposed skin rejuvenating benefits. The procedure involves drawing blood from the arm, separating platelets, and then applying them to the face with the goal of reducing acne scars and wrinkles.
The New Mexico Department of Health conducted an investigation into the spa and found evidence of reused disposable equipment, unlabeled blood tubes, and unwrapped needles being used on clients. These unsafe practices led to the transmission of HIV to the unsuspecting clients.
Nearly 200 former clients and their sexual partners were tested for HIV, but thankfully no additional infections were found. However, the impact of this negligent behavior by the spa’s former owner, Maria de Lourdes Ramos de Ruiz, has left a lasting scar on the community.
Ramos de Ruiz pleaded guilty to five felony counts of practicing medicine without a license, including conducting unlicensed vampire facials and other procedures. As a result of the investigation, the spa was closed in fall 2018.
In a court ruling, Ramos de Ruiz was sentenced to 7 1/2 years, with four years suspended on supervised probation and 3 1/2 years in prison. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the safety and legitimacy of medical spas and cosmetic procedures.
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