Bratz Makeup Sketchbook Recall Issued Due to Staph Infection Risk

Makeup design sketch books for the popular Bratz toy line have been recalled because they may carry the risk of staph infection. 

The Bratz Makeup Design Sketch Book recall was announced on Monday by the FDA and the manufacturer, MGA Entertainment, after testing found elevated levels of Staphylococcus warneri and Staphylococcus intermedius in eye shadow sold with the products. There have been no reports of infections associated with the Bratz sketchbooks.

The recall affects 6,200 Bratz Makeup Design Sketch Books manufactured between November 5, 2010 and February 25, 2010. Sketch books affected by the recall have a product number of 504788 and UPC of 0-35-51-50478-8.

The Makeup Design Sketch books were sold nationwide through retail stores and online websites. MGA has discontinued production of the products.

Staph infections are caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. About a quarter to one-third of all humans carry the bacteria in colonies somewhere on the body, usually the nose, mouth, or genitals. The infection usually occurs when the bacteria gets into the body through a cut. The infections vary in strength, from easily treatable boils to potentially deadly infections that shrug off many commonly-used antibiotics.

Antibiotics can be used to treat staph infections caught early. But if they go untreated, the infections can damage muscles or the fibers that enclose muscles, which then need to be surgically cleaned. Staph infection symptoms typically include fever, chills, sweats, small areas of tenderness or swelling, open sores that develop redness, warmth swelling and pain.

It is rare for either of the staph strains linked to the sketch books to cause disease in humans.

Consumers are recommended to discontinue use of the recalled Bratz sketch books and customers can call MGA Customer Service at 1-800-222-4685 for information on obtaining a full refund.