Hundreds of customers could have been exposed to HIV and hepatitis at an illegal beauty salon where cockroaches were found crawling on equipment, authorities said today.
Sonoun Kimlee Salon in Melbourne, Australia, has been shut down after inspectors made the grim discovery.
Its customers were contacted by health officials who have recommended they get blood tests.
The shop opened in Springvale Shopping Centre in January 2018 and has since offered tattooing, mole removal, eyelid cutting and skin peel procedures.
But it was an illegal salon, authorities at Greater Dandenong Council said.
Dr Brett Sutton, the chief health officer for the authority, said: “I want to reiterate how important it is to only receive cosmetic services in a registered facility using hygienic processes.
“The risk of infection, injury and permanent damage is very high if premises do not employ suitably qualified staff and practice suitable infection control measures."
It is unclear exactly how many people may be at risk of infection.
But News9 reports the blood-borne viruses include hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV.
Dr Sutton continued: “We are contacting clients we are aware of. If you, or someone you know, had cosmetic procedures at this salon, see your doctor as soon as possible to have a blood test."
The salon remains closed.
All equipment and medicines have been removed from the site, which was behind a jewellers.
The investigation continues.
HIV is a virus that damages the cells in your immune system and weakens your ability to fight everyday infections and disease, according to the NHS website.
There are very effective drug treatments that enable most people with the virus to live a long and healthy life.
You can get tested in a number of places, including at your GP surgery, sexual health clinics, and clinics run by charities.
