Two people have been infected with HIV, probably after receiving "vampiric facials" in a New Mexico spa, now closed, and the state health department now offers a test free to old customers.

The New Mexico Department of Health announced that it was investigating two cases of HIV infection among customers of the VIP Spa, which closed its doors in September after officials discovered it could spread disease blood-borne, such as HIV or hepatitis.

The health department said this week that it had not yet found any potential exposure for both people living with HIV, with the exception of their procedures related to HIV. 39, injection at VIP Spa.

"Additional laboratory tests on both client's samples indicate recent infection with the same HIV virus – increasing the likelihood that both HIV infections may have resulted from a procedure at the VIP spa," officials said. health in a statement.

"Vampire facial treatment": Spa in New Mexico may have clients exposed to HIV, hepatitis

A "vampire facial" is a treatment that involves isolating a person's blood in order to obtain a platelet-rich plasma and then inject it into that person's skin at the same time. 39, using a microtouch process.

The "facial" gained popularity after celebrities like Kim Kardashian shared their experiences with fashionable treatment. However, Kardashian has since stated that she regretted receiving it because of the pain, according to allure.com.

The two HIV-positive people received injections at the spa between May and September 2018, the health department said.

In September, spa owner Luly Ruiz told KOAT-TV in Albuquerque that she only uses disposable needles. "I open them in front of my customers every time they come," Ruiz said.

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State health officials now offer free HIV and hepatitis B and C testing for all former spa clients.

"With more than 100 Spa VIP clients already tested, NMDOH ensures that counseling and testing services are available to people who have received injection-related services at VIP Spa," said Kathy Kunkel, secretary of the clinic. Cabinet of Ministries of Health, to a statement. "Screening is important for everyone because there are effective treatments for HIV and many infections with hepatitis."

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contributing: Brett Molina.

Follow Ryan Miller, USA TODAY, on Twitter @RyanW_Miller.

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