Hand soap recalled over 'life-threatening' bacterial risk
A man washes his hands with liquid soap. (Photo by Monika Skolimowska/picture alliance via Getty Images)
DermaRite Industries, LLC is voluntarily recalling several soap products due to the microbial contamination identified as Burkholderia cepecia.
What is Burkholderia cepacia?
Dig deeper:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Burkholderia cepacia complex, also called B. cepacia or Bcc, is a group of bacteria that can cause infections in healthcare settings. It can cause serious and potentially life-threatening infections.
The recalled products pose a heightened risk for immunocompromised individuals, either using them directly or being cared for by others who use them.
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While healthy users with minor skin lesions may experience localized infections, those with weakened immune systems face the possibility of the infection spreading into the bloodstream, potentially resulting in life-threatening sepsis.
The company reports that no adverse events have been reported in connection with the recall to date.
What products are being recalled?
Why you should care:
The products being recalled are:
- DermaKleen – OTC healthcare antiseptic lotion soap with Vitamin E, indicated for handwashing to reduce bacteria on the skin.
- DermaSarra – OTC external analgesic, indicated for temporary relief of itching caused by minor skin irritations from dry skin, insect bites, detergents, or sunburn.
- KleenFoam – OTC antimicrobial foam soap with Aloe Vera, indicated for handwashing to reduce bacteria on the skin after changing diapers, assisting ill individuals, or before contact with someone under medical care or treatment.
- PeriGiene – OTC antiseptic cleanser, indicated for use in the perineal area.
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The recalled products were sold nationwide in the United States and in Puerto Rico.
What you can do:
Consumers with questions regarding this recall can call Mary Goldberg at 973-569-9000 x104 Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm EST or email voluntary.action@dermarite.com.
Consumers should contact their physician or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using this product.
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.
- Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
- Regular Mail or Fax: Download form www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178
The Source: The information in this story comes from a recall announcement by DermaRite Industries, LLC and public health guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This story was reported from Los Angeles.