Hand Soaps Recalled Due to Bacteria That Could Result in ‘Life-Threatening Sepsis’

Several hand soaps, cleansers, and antiseptics have been voluntarily recalled due to contamination with dangerous bacteria that could cause “life-threatening sepsis.” DermaRite Industries confirmed the recall of four products: DermaKleen antiseptic lotion soap with vitamin E in 1,000-milliliter and 800-milliliter sizes, KleenFoam antibacterial foam soap with aloe vera in 1,000-milliliter sizes, DermaSarra external analgesic in 7.5-ounce sizes, and PeriGiene antiseptic cleanser in 7.5-ounce sizes.

The recalled items were shipped nationwide across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Impacted products have expiration dates ranging from July 2024 to February 2027. The company said testing revealed the presence of Burkholderia cepacia complex, a bacterium linked to serious and potentially fatal infections. While no adverse events have been reported so far, officials warn the contamination poses a severe risk, especially for vulnerable populations.

“Burkholderia Cepacia Complex in these products may result in serious and life-threatening infections,” the company stated in a press release. “The contaminated products may be used by immunosuppressed individuals or by people attending to immunosuppressed individuals.”

DermaRite warned that healthy individuals with minor skin lesions could develop localized infections. In contrast, those with weakened immune systems face a greater danger, as the infection could spread into the bloodstream and lead to sepsis. The company urged distributors and customers to check their inventories immediately and destroy affected items according to facility protocols.

Burkholderia cepacia, also known as B. cepacia or Bcc, is a group of bacteria commonly found in soil and water. According to the CDC, it can contaminate surfaces, products, and spread through direct person-to-person contact. This bacteria is known for being resistant to many antibiotics, making treatment challenging once an infection develops.

People exposed to B. cepacia may experience fever, fatigue, and respiratory infections, particularly if they have compromised immune systems. However, some individuals may not show symptoms at all, making the bacteria’s spread more difficult to detect. Health officials stress the importance of handling the recall seriously to prevent possible outbreaks.

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