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Two clients of a now-closed New Mexico spa have tested positive for HIV, prompting the state health department to continue its push forprevious clients to get testedfor HIV and hepatitis.
The New Mexico Department of Health said in astatementMonday it is currently investigating the two cases of infection among clients who had injection procedures done at the VIP Spa in Albuquerque between May and September 2018.
Kim Kardashianfamously got one in 2013, but said it was “really rough and painful,” as she had just learned she was pregnant, and was therefore unable to get a numbing cream or pain killer beforehand.
Kim Kardashian/Instagram
“Additional laboratory testing on specimens from the two clients indicates recent infection with the same HIV virus – increasing the likelihood that the two HIV infections may have resulted from a procedure at the VIP spa,” the statement read.
The NMDOHpreviously said in Septemberthat one person had developed an infection, and anyone who received an injection procedure should get tested.
Cabinet Secretary Kathy Kunkel said Monday that more than 100 clients of the spa have already been tested, but that the department wanted to ensure everyone was aware of possibility of infection.
“First off, she didn’t have a license, so that was basically why we were able to close the establishment,” Kathy Ortiz, Deputy Director for Boards and Commissions, toldKRQEof the aesthetician running the business.
Owner Luly Ruiz toldKOAT Newsin September that she was cooperating with the health department, but only used disposable needles, and took care to open each new needle in front of her client.
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“I want everybody to be sure, everybody to be happy, and to know they don’t have anything,” she said.
“That’s concerning, because if needles aren’t handled appropriately, you could potentially increase the risk of a blood-borne infection,” he said.
Clients can get tested for free at South Valley Health Commons and Casa de Salud Family Medical Office, both in Albuquerque.
source: people.com
