INDIANA — A medical hand soap brand has issued a nationwide recall for four of its antiseptic products after a potentially deadly bacterium was discovered during testing. DermaRite, a manufacturer of healthcare products, announced the recall after detecting a microbial contamination of Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) in its soaps.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Bcc is a group of bacteria that is often resistant to common antibiotics, making infections difficult to treat. The bacteria can cause serious, life-threatening infections, particularly in healthcare settings.
The recalled products are over-the-counter antiseptic soaps used by physicians and healthcare professionals in settings such as hospitals and nursing homes. DermaRite’s press release indicated that the contaminated products pose a risk to immunosuppressed individuals or those caring for them. While healthy individuals may only experience localized infections from the soaps if they have small cuts, the bacteria can spread to the bloodstream of immunocompromised individuals, potentially leading to life-threatening sepsis.
Bcc can spread through various means, including exposure to contaminated water, soil, surfaces, or medical equipment, as well as person-to-person transmission. The CDC notes that patients with cystic fibrosis are particularly susceptible to severe respiratory infections from the bacteria.
As of Friday’s announcement, DermaRite has not received any reports of “adverse events” related to the recall. The company is working to remove the affected products from circulation.
The CDC advises that symptoms of Bcc infection can range from no symptoms at all to serious respiratory infections, fever, and fatigue. Anyone who has used these products and is experiencing symptoms should consult a healthcare professional immediately.
