Rising HIV Cases Traced to "Vampire Facials" at New Mexico Spa
A new HIV case has been linked to a "vampire facial" at a now-closed New Mexico spa, prompting state health officials to urge former clients to get tested for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. The spa closed in 2018 after inspectors found practices that could spread blood-borne infections. The patient who tested positive for HIV had received the facial in 2018, and two other clients had previously tested positive. The health department has identified additional HIV infections with connections to the spa and is encouraging retesting for former clients. The spa owner pleaded guilty to practicing medicine without a license and was sentenced to prison.