Wisconsin-based Pharmacal announced a recall of a popular eczema cream sold in stores and online after health authorities discovered the cream was contaminated with a dangerous type of bacteria.
This bacterium is scientifically known as "Staphylococcus aureus" or "Staphylococcus aureus," and it is naturally present on the skin of most people and in the noses of about 30% of them, and usually does not cause any harm.
But the problem is that if it enters the body through a wound or sensitive area, it can lead to very serious infections that may even lead to death, especially in people with weak immunity or who suffer from wounds, burns, or chronic skin diseases.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned in a recall notice that using this contaminated cream, sold at H&B stores and on Amazon, could cause localized infections or could extend to internal organs such as heart valve infections, bone and joint infections, or life-threatening blood poisoning.
The contaminated product is specifically a 6-ounce (177-milliliter) tube, with product number 5106 and barcode 012277051067, and an expiry date of November 2026. No injuries or damage have been reported so far, but the company is asking everyone who has purchased this cream to stop using it immediately and dispose of it in the trash.
It is worth noting that this eczema cream has proven effective in soothing the skin, including that affected by eczema. It provides fast and long-lasting relief from itching, irritation, and dryness, and is suitable for children and infants. It also helps prevent the recurrence of symptoms.
The cream contains "colloidal oatmeal" which acts as a natural barrier for the skin, moisturizes it, and reduces inflammation, and was known to be safe even for children and infants.
It's unclear how the bacteria contaminated the cream, especially since staphylococcal bacteria are usually treatable with antibiotics. However, there is growing concern because strains of staphylococcal bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics recently, making infections more dangerous and potentially leading to fatal complications.
