DermaRite Industries LLC announced a voluntary recall on August 8 involving more than a dozen soap and sanitizer products distributed throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.
This recall results from the detection of Burkholderia cepacia, a bacterium that poses a serious health threat to consumers.
Burkholderia cepacia is a microorganism commonly found in soil and water that can cause infections difficult to treat due to its resistance to many antibiotics.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that symptoms of infection may include fever and fatigue, and the bacteria can spread from person to person.
The recall covers a range of products including DermaKleen lotion soaps, PeriGiene antiseptic, and KleenFoam soap. Consumers who possess any of these items should stop using them immediately.
DermaRite has assessed that all users of the contaminated products may face health risks, but those with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible.
According to the company, healthy individuals with minor skin wounds may experience localized infections. In contrast, immunocompromised individuals risk more severe complications, such as bloodstream infections that could lead to life-threatening sepsis.
At the time of the recall, DermaRite reported no known adverse reactions linked to the affected products. The company has communicated with distributors and customers to stress the urgency of discontinuing the use of these items.
Consumers can verify if their product is included in the recall by checking the brand name and lot number printed on the packaging.
For additional information or questions, DermaRite encourages contacting them via email at voluntary.action@dermarite.com.
The Food and Drug Administration advises anyone experiencing side effects after using these products to seek medical care. The FDA also recommends reporting any adverse events through its MedWatch program, accessible online.
