Hand soap recalled nationwide due to contamination that may cause ‘life-threatening sepsis’

Hand sanitizers and soaps often used in hospitals and nursing homes have been recalled due to a bacterial contamination that could cause sepsis, a life-threatening condition. 

Medicare care supplier DermaRite Industries on Friday warned that several lots of products were contaminated with Burkholderia cepecia. 

Its DermaKleen lotion soaps, DermaSarra anti-itch lotion and KleenFoam soap were included in the recall. 

The company’s PeriGiene rinse-free spray, for use in the perineal area by new mothers after delivery and individuals with incontinence, was also recalled.

These products were distributed across the US and Puerto Rico.

In healthy individuals, the use of these products on skin with minor cuts could result in local infections.

But in immunocompromised individuals, the bacteria could spread into the bloodstream and cause sepsis, a condition when the body turns on itself while fighting off infection.

Sepsis can trigger septic shock, which is when a drastic drop in blood pressure can damage the lungs, kidneys, liver and other organs – potentially leading to death.

DermaRite said there have been no reports of adverse reactions related to the recall. 

Individuals who experience adverse reactions from the product should contact a physician and report the events to the FDA.

DermaRite said it has notified its distributors and customers by e-mail to immediately examine their inventory and destroy all recalled products.