Soap recalled due to to bacterial contamination

Editor's Note

DermaRite Industries has voluntarily recalled multiple lots of healthcare products nationwide due to contamination with Burkholderia cepacia, a bacterium that poses serious infection risks to immunocompromised individuals, according to an August 10 article in Newsweek.

The recall affects four product lines commonly used in healthcare settings for handwashing and skin care: DermaKleen, Dermasarra, Kleenfoam, and Perigiene items, as detailed in the article. The contaminated products were distributed across the United States and Puerto Rico, the outlet reports.

According to the article, Burkholderia cepacia represents a group of bacteria commonly found in soil and water that typically poses little risk to healthy individuals. However, the outlet reports that the pathogen can lead to life-threatening infections, including sepsis, in those with weakened immune systems.

The company's recall notice warns that contaminated products may result in serious and life-threatening infections, Newsweek reports. Healthy individuals with minor skin lesions would more likely experience local infections from product use, whereas immunocompromised individuals face greater risk of bloodstream infections leading to life-threatening sepsis.  

Individuals using these products, especially those with compromised immune systems, are advised to discontinue use. More details, including details on affected product as well as contact information and other instructions for responding to the recall, are available in the full report.