Recall of Skin-Cleaning and Anti-Itch Products Due to Infection Risks

A healthcare product manufacturer in the United States is recalling several of its over-the-counter skin cleansers and an anti-itch lotion owing to infection risk concerns that may have severe health implications.

DermaRite Industries, a company based in New Jersey, has initiated a voluntary recall of these healthcare items after discovering a potential bacterial contamination with Burkholderia cepacia. This contamination poses additional risk, particularly to individuals with weakened immune systems.

The recall announcement by DermaRite was echoed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and highlighted that these products might be used by or for those who are immunocompromised.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes the Burkholderia cepacia complex as potentially causing symptoms ranging from fever and fatigue to critical respiratory infections.

According to the company, healthy individuals with minor skin damage may experience localized infections. However, for those with compromised immune systems, there is a risk of the bacteria spreading through the bloodstream, potentially leading to life-threatening sepsis.

DermaRite specializes in various healthcare products, including items for wound care, hand sanitation, moisturizers, and more, tailored for use in medical environments.

To date, the company has not received any adverse event reports related to the recall. For further information, they have referred inquiries back to their primary communications.

Specific Products in the Recall

The list of recalled products includes DermaKleen, DermaSarra, KleenFoam, and PeriGiene. Each serves varied healthcare functions, like DermaKleen, an antimicrobial hand cleanser, and DermaSarra, which offers relief from skin irritants such as poison ivy and insect bites.

DermaRite has contacted its distributors and customers to urge them to check their inventories immediately and dispose of any affected items according to their facilities’ standard procedures.

Consumers who have used the recalled products are advised to contact their healthcare provider if they experience any related health concerns.