Western Australia’s Department of Health has advised all clients of registered nurse Tiffany Fraser, of Wembley Downs, to visit their doctor for blood tests to check for a potential blood-borne virus or bacterial infection.
The health department said it had launched an investigation into a possible infection control breach at Ms Fraser’s home, and she had been reported to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
Chief health officer Tarun Weeramanthri said the potential risk of infection was small but real.
“While the risk of infection for individual patients is considered very low, it is important that any potential risk, no matter how unlikely, is ruled out,” Dr Weeramanthri said.
“Ms Fraser was conducting cosmetic procedures including the injection of Botox and fillers in an unregulated environment, without any documentation of infection control practices.
“Anyone who received treatment in Ms Fraser’s home involving the injection of hyaluronic acid (Juvederm) or botulinum toxin (Botox) should visit their GP as soon as possible to arrange a blood test.”
Dr Weeramanthri said the health department had written to all of Ms Fraser’s known clients to advise them of the threat, but also wanted to identify any other clients who may have visited her home for cosmetic treatments.
“The Department of Health is continuing its investigation into this possible infection control breach and advises people to exercise caution before undergoing cosmetic procedures in private homes, outside a clinical setting,” Dr Weeramanthri said.
This type of “backyard clinics” are being implicated more frequently in hepatitis and HIV infections. Has your facility had to clean up for one of these incidents?