More fatalities linked to recalled contaminated eye drops
Key Takeaways
More people have died in connection with EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma Artificial tears recall.
The eye drops were recalled earlier this year because of contamination with a deadly bacterial strain.
Multiple eye products have been recalled since the beginning of the year.
Three people are dead after using contaminated eye drops. Earlier this year, EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma Artificial tears were recalled after a drug-resistant strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria was detected in the drops. Initially, only one death was reported in connection with the products.[]
According to a report updated this week by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 68 patients have been impacted by the products and have been identified from across 16 different states. There have been eight reports of vision loss and four people have faced enucleation.
Related: Recall alert: More eye products recalled because of contaminationThe Federal Drug Administration (FDA) also recalled Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Eye Ointment after a contamination risk. All three eye products are manufactured by Global Pharma.
Yet another product recalled
Earlier in this month, Purely Soothing, 15% MSM Drops were also recalled. This product isn't connected to the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria but still faces a contamination risk.[]
The following lots may cause eye infections and blindness:
LOT#: 2203PS01, 1 oz, UPC 7 31034 91379 9
LOT#: 1808051, ½ oz, UPC 7 31034 91382 9
What this means for you
Physicians should report any cases of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to haioutbreak@cdc.gov. Physicians may also need to answer questions from patients concerned about this outbreak.