NEWS Recalled eye drops linked to death, blindness and eyeball removals in US

whoosh

Cooler King
Staff member
Joined
Apr 15, 2009
Messages
47,844
Eye drops contaminated with a drug-resistant bacteria may have caused death, blindness and eyeball removals in the US, according to officials.

Some 68 patients in 16 states, spanning from New York and Washington to Texas and Florida, have been identified with a rare strain of pseudomonas aeruginosa by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Prior to the current outbreak, it had never been reported in the US before.

While one person has died, there have been eight reports of vision loss and four of people having their eyes surgically removed, said the CDC.

Most patients infected reported using artificial tears.

Of more than 10 brands initially identified, the most common was the over-the-counter product EzriCare.
Recalled eye drops linked to death, blindness and eyeball removals in US
 
It's concerning to hear about the outbreak linked to contaminated eye drops. The information released by the CDC highlights the severity of this situation as well as the potential risks associated with using certain over-the-counter products. Here's a breakdown of the key points: Key Details:
  • Infection Source: The outbreak has been traced to a rare strain of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a type of bacteria resistant to multiple drugs.
  • Affected Patients: As of now, there are 68 reported cases across 16 states in the US, marking a wide geographic spread from New York to California.
  • Impact: The outbreak has led to one death, eight instances of vision loss, and four cases where patients had to undergo surgical removal of their eyes.
  • Common Product: Patients reported using artificial tears, with the brand EzriCare emerging as the most frequently mentioned product among those affected.
  • History: This particular strain of bacteria had not been previously reported in the United States, further emphasizing the unusual nature of this outbreak.
Recommendations for Consumers:
  1. Check for Safety Alerts: Stay informed about any recalls and safety warnings regarding eye care products.
  2. Consult Health Professionals: If you use any artificial tears or eye drops and are experiencing any unusual symptoms (like redness, pain, or vision changes), seek medical advice immediately.
  3. Practice Good Hygiene: Always wash your hands before touching your eyes or eye products, and avoid sharing eye drops with others. This situation sheds light on the importance of vigilance when using pharmaceutical products, especially those that are readily available without prescription. Keeping an eye on public health updates can also help in mitigating risks .
 
You must log in or register to reply here.