(NewsNation) — Hand soap sold across the United States and in Puerto Rico has been recalled due to a dangerous bacterial contamination.
A range of over-the-counter soap products manufactured by DermaRite Industries has been discovered to contain Burkholderia cepacia complex, a bacterium that may cause “serious and life-threatening infections,” as alerted by the company.
The recall pertains to several soap brands including DermaKlee, DermaSarra, KleenFoam, and PeriGene. Detailed information on the affected products along with their lot numbers is available on the DermaRite website.
The company stated in a news release, “In individuals with healthy immune systems and minor skin abrasions, using this product is likely to cause local infections. However, for those with weakened immune systems, the infection has a higher chance of entering the bloodstream, potentially leading to life-threatening sepsis.”
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms of exposure to the bacteria can include fever, fatigue, and potential respiratory infections in individuals with compromised immune functions.
Infections from the bacterium could lead to death, the CDC said.
As of Aug. 8, DermaRite had not received reports of anyone getting sick from the products.
If customers have any inquiries regarding the recall, they are encouraged to email voluntary.action@dermarite.com or contact 973-569-9000, extension 104, during regular business hours.
