Soaps recalled due to risk of life-threatening infections

Photo of Nik in Unsplash

DermaRite Industries announced the voluntary recall of several of its antiseptic and antimicrobial soaps throughout the United States and Puerto Rico, due to possible contamination with the bacteria Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc), which could cause serious infections and even life-threatening sepsis.

According to the alert, healthy people with minor skin lesions may develop local infections, while immunosuppressed individuals risk the bacteria entering the bloodstream and causing life-threatening sepsis. So far, no cases associated with the use of the recalled products have been reported.

What is the Burkholderia cepacia complex?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this group of bacteria is common in soil and water and can exhibit resistance to several antibiotics. Infections can range from asymptomatic to severe respiratory complications, especially in patients with cystic fibrosis or chronic lung diseases. Other possible symptoms include fever and fatigue.

Recalled products

Recalled items include:

• DermaKleen: antiseptic lotion soap with vitamin E.
• DermaSarra: external analgesic to relieve itching from minor irritations.
• KleenFoam: Antimicrobial foaming soap with aloe vera, used for hand hygiene and reducing bacteria on the skin.
• PeriGiene: antiseptic cleanser for use in the perineal area.

Recommendations to consumers

DermaRite has asked distributors and consumers to review their inventory and destroy affected products following each facility's procedures. Those who experience health problems after use should seek medical advice immediately.

For more information, those affected can call (973) 569-9000 ext. 104, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. CT, or write to voluntary.action@dermarite.com.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requests that any adverse reactions be reported through the MedWatch program, either online (www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm), by mail or fax (1-800-FDA-0178).

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Sources:

• Telemundo 62
• Infobae