Hand wash products sold at Walmart recalled nationwide over life-threatening risk. What should you do if you bought it?

A number of variety soaps sold in the US and in Puerto Rico have been voluntarily recalled after it was found they have been contaminated with life-threatening bacteria. A nationwide recall was issued and shoppers have been warned to immediately discard any affected products over the risk of contracting Sepsis.

Walmart is one of a number of retailers impacted by the recall, according to the US Sun. Reports suggest DermaRite Industries LLC, announced the recall on August 8 after Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) was detected in batches of four products that it sells and distributes nationwide.

Soaps recalled in USA

At least four dozen lots of hand soap and lotion products made by DermaRite Industries are being voluntarily recalled after a dangerous bacterium was discovered during testing. The company discovered contamination by potentially deadly bacteria, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service.

The bacteria found during testing was 'Burkholderia cepacia' which can spread into the bloodstream through cuts and cause life-threatening sepsis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.


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The germs, which are found in water and soil, can spread from person to person and are difficult to treat due to their antimicrobial resistance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms of an infection may include fever and fatigue.

According to DermaRite, the recalled products were distributed throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. They include multiple lots of four different items:

DermaKleen: an over-the-counter “antiseptic lotion soap with Vitamin E indicated for handwashing to decrease bacteria on the skin.”

DermaSarra: an over-the-counter “external analgesic indicated for temporary relief of itching associated with minor skin irritations due to dry skin, insect bites, detergents, sunburn.”

KleenFoam: an over-the-counter “antimicrobial foam soap with Aloe Vera indicated for handwashing to decrease bacteria on the skin after changing diapers, after assisting ill people, or before contact with a person under medical care or treatment.”

PeriGiene: an over-the-counter “antiseptic cleanser indicated for use in the perineal area.”

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Has anyone gotten sick yet?

According to DermaRite’s voluntary recall notice, the company has not “received any reports of adverse events related to this recall.” Adverse reactions can be reported to the FDA.

If exposed, should you be worried?

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, B. cepacia is “commonly found in soil and water” and “poses little medical risk to healthy people.” If the bacteria were to enter a healthy person’s cut, it would likely result in a local infection.

The problem is that DermaRite’s products can be used by immunocompromised people or those attending to them — and if you’re immunocompromised, a B. cepacia infection is more likely to spread into the bloodstream and trigger life-threatening sepsis. According to the CDC, symptoms of a B. cepacia infection vary, “ranging from no symptoms to serious respiratory infections, especially in patients with cystic fibrosis or other chronic lung disease.” Fever and fatigue are early signs of infection.

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DermaRite says it has “notified its distributors and customers by e-mail to immediately examine available inventory and destroy all affected products in accordance with each facility’s process.”

The company also urges consumers to contact their physician or health care provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using the affected products.

What should you do if you bought the recalled product?

Consumers who bought one of DermaRite's recalled products can return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Concerned shoppers who have any questions are urged to call Mary Goldberg at 973-569-9000 x104 Monday through Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm EST or email voluntary.action@dermarite.com.

What is sepsis and what are its symptoms?

Sepsis is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when your immune system overreacts to an infection, causing damage to your own tissues and organs.

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Warning Signs in Adults

Seek urgent medical attention if you notice:

Confusion, disorientation, slurred speech, or unusual behavior

Skin, lips, or tongue that appear blue, grey, pale, or blotchy — on brown or black skin, this may be more visible on the palms or soles

A rash that doesn’t fade when you press a clear glass against it (similar to meningitis)

Difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or feeling extremely breathless

Warning Signs in Children

Call for emergency help immediately if your child has:

Skin, lips, or tongue that appear blue, grey, pale, or blotchy — on brown or black skin, check the palms or soles for these changes

A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a clear glass (as with meningitis)

Difficulty breathing, which may include grunting sounds or the stomach pulling in under the ribcage

A weak, high-pitched cry that is different from their usual cry

Reduced responsiveness, lack of interest in feeding or playing

Unusual sleepiness or trouble waking up

A person may not show all these symptoms. If you suspect sepsis in yourself or someone else, call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately.