Triad Group Alcohol Swab Recall: Risk of Microbial Contamination

• DennisAugust 7, 2013 at 7:24 pm

  Back in 2011 I used the Swab , I got infected the skin redden , blistered like a burn then started to fall of when I went to a Hospital the doctor told me I had Diabeties in my foot , i told him about the swab and asked for a test he said no it's diabeties and has to be removed , I seen someone elde and asked for a test he performed a MRI and there was no sign of Diabeties , I was given a antibiot[Show More]Back in 2011 I used the Swab , I got infected the skin redden , blistered like a burn then started to fall of when I went to a Hospital the doctor told me I had Diabeties in my foot , i told him about the swab and asked for a test he said no it's diabeties and has to be removed , I seen someone elde and asked for a test he performed a MRI and there was no sign of Diabeties , I was given a antibiotic and sent home , as of today my foot is still bad ,

• NancyFebruary 4, 2012 at 5:19 am

  I am a Nurse and have been on Copaxone for 13+ years. In December 2011 i experienced a serious skin reaction that initially looked like a bad bruise, turned purple then black. Eventually formed what looked like a scab but was actually eschar. I have had 3 debridements to remove dead tissue and now i am left a numb arm (from nerve damage) and a nasty scar. I have not worked for 2 months due to pai[Show More]I am a Nurse and have been on Copaxone for 13+ years. In December 2011 i experienced a serious skin reaction that initially looked like a bad bruise, turned purple then black. Eventually formed what looked like a scab but was actually eschar. I have had 3 debridements to remove dead tissue and now i am left a numb arm (from nerve damage) and a nasty scar. I have not worked for 2 months due to pain, multiple medical appointments and drug induced Hepititis.(from abx, pain meds, lyrica, vitamins and tylenol.) There are 2 other patients who are getting wound treatment for the same symptom caused from Copaxone but do not want to talk because they dont want to go off the med. By the way.....I use clean skin right after a shower and DO NOT use alcohol pads. TEVA did tell me there have been some skin necrosis cases but nothing more. I am looking for otheres to speak to re;similar symptoms. Maybe create a group on Facebook?

• DeborahNovember 7, 2011 at 9:48 pm

  Not sure but would this contamination be with the Reli on Swabs with pain relief sold at Walmart. I been using them for a while you have me scared. Should I stop. Please respond asap.

• EdwardSeptember 30, 2011 at 4:56 pm

  I was receiving injections for several months and in january when I used the pads provided in my medication shippment, after the injection I thought I was on fire. I then got these horribble blisters that itched like nothing else i have every had. They spread and then became open soars which wouldn't heal. Went to doctors and specials to no avail. I know have scaring from this. It still reap[Show More]I was receiving injections for several months and in january when I used the pads provided in my medication shippment, after the injection I thought I was on fire. I then got these horribble blisters that itched like nothing else i have every had. They spread and then became open soars which wouldn't heal. Went to doctors and specials to no avail. I know have scaring from this. It still reappears at times. It is now believed it interfeared with my injections for Hepc and went from a 53 viral load to over 3 million. We don't know what to do... We had used 2 prior to be notified by anyone that they could be tainted. Thats sad...

• DennisAugust 3, 2011 at 2:14 pm

  I used this product about 4 months ago been sorry for it ever since , I walked on a staple driving it into my foot I used the swab to clean the area the next morning my foot was covered in water blisters ( like a burn ) another day went by and the blisters started to peel exposing the bone in one toe and layer's of skin from the bottom of my foot , so over the last 4 months I’ve been running back[Show More]I used this product about 4 months ago been sorry for it ever since , I walked on a staple driving it into my foot I used the swab to clean the area the next morning my foot was covered in water blisters ( like a burn ) another day went by and the blisters started to peel exposing the bone in one toe and layer's of skin from the bottom of my foot , so over the last 4 months I’ve been running back and forth to the hospital for bandage changes and cleaning twice a week plus two different antibiotics , the hospital is 35 miles away ,,

• AngelaJune 28, 2011 at 7:29 pm

  I have MS and used the swabs that came with my Copaxone injections. In mid-November I suddenly became very sick after feeling strong, healthy, and active for some time. I was so weak that I was in bed for a week with a constant fever of 102 even while alternating Tylenol and Ibuprofen. I had a bad sore throat that I thought was strep but the test was negative, headaches, some vomiting, and coul[Show More]I have MS and used the swabs that came with my Copaxone injections. In mid-November I suddenly became very sick after feeling strong, healthy, and active for some time. I was so weak that I was in bed for a week with a constant fever of 102 even while alternating Tylenol and Ibuprofen. I had a bad sore throat that I thought was strep but the test was negative, headaches, some vomiting, and couldn't eat much for a week. First the doctors thought it was viral, but after not getting well or improving after a week, they gave me antibiotics and I got better. I have had Hepatitis A before with complete exhaustion and this was very reminiscent of that to me.

• E. C. CornellJune 24, 2011 at 5:18 am

  I will buy ReliOn Alcohol Swabs with Pain Relief from anyone who still has their box because my insulin injections are painful. I have tried several benzocaine creams, ointments and even oral pain relief, but only the Reli-on pads provide a true numbing effect.

• moonlightmagikMay 6, 2011 at 5:01 am

  Ah, duh they were made here, NOT China!

• carolApril 25, 2011 at 1:45 pm

  I have type 1 diabetes and I use thes alcohol pads also. I have has some soreness around the area I clean before injection. I sometimes last 2-3 days. I purchased 3 boxes of pads and did not know they were recalled and I am concerned about my health.

• dianneApril 24, 2011 at 7:31 pm

  am on interferon and have used wipes, have got an infection in one of my injection sites that is so painful and seems to be getting worse from the inside of my tummy, antibiotics arent working nor the cream. Have felt so ill for so long now. Am not having the itching that everyone talks about but i think thats with MS sufferers, i have melanoma , not sure if that makes any differance. Hope yu all[Show More]am on interferon and have used wipes, have got an infection in one of my injection sites that is so painful and seems to be getting worse from the inside of my tummy, antibiotics arent working nor the cream. Have felt so ill for so long now. Am not having the itching that everyone talks about but i think thats with MS sufferers, i have melanoma , not sure if that makes any differance. Hope yu all get better soon .

• ReneeMarch 31, 2011 at 11:46 pm

  A rebuttal to Peter who stated that Triad makes BD Alcohol Swabs...I just got off the phone with both Triad and BD. Triad confirmed they have no affiliation with nor do they distribute anything for BD Consumer Healthcare. BD Consumer Healthcare confirmed that their alcohol swabs are NOT part of the recall, pose no threat whatsoever, and are manufactured and distributed ONLY by Becton Dickinson an[Show More]A rebuttal to Peter who stated that Triad makes BD Alcohol Swabs...I just got off the phone with both Triad and BD. Triad confirmed they have no affiliation with nor do they distribute anything for BD Consumer Healthcare. BD Consumer Healthcare confirmed that their alcohol swabs are NOT part of the recall, pose no threat whatsoever, and are manufactured and distributed ONLY by Becton Dickinson and Co. BD alcohol swabs are totally safe to use. I've been using them for a few years now and have never had any problem with them at all. BD alcohol swabs are in short supply right now; my mail order pharmacy Medco is totally out of them until further notice. I did, however, find some on eBay that are fresh, not seconds or rejects, and the seller is a reputable pharmacy. 100ct for less than $3.00. I hope everyone feels better. Oh, BTW, BD alcohol swabs are labelled "Made in USA" for those of you who only buy American and who don't think America sucks.

• lindaMarch 21, 2011 at 3:36 pm

  on feb,11 2011 i wrote about my daughter who has ms and has had a lot of problems since August of 2010, she is still having problems and since then she has developed an eye infection that seems to linger on even after being treated. still no real answer as to why she has been so sick, and her neurologist told her that these symptons are not ms! still not able to eat much and lots of weight loss.ar[Show More]on feb,11 2011 i wrote about my daughter who has ms and has had a lot of problems since August of 2010, she is still having problems and since then she has developed an eye infection that seems to linger on even after being treated. still no real answer as to why she has been so sick, and her neurologist told her that these symptons are not ms! still not able to eat much and lots of weight loss.are the prep pads causing all this?

• TerryMarch 21, 2011 at 12:09 pm

  I have been using copaxone for my ms therapy since 2000. it is sad to think that Triad would be so reckless. I have had several of the complications listed in the articles I have read. I worry about the long term and permanent problems. I have been on the therapy for 11 years.

• StephanieMarch 17, 2011 at 11:13 pm

  I too have MS and have been taking Copaxone since my dx 8 years ago. I have had site reactions such as swelling, redness, piting of my skin, itchiness....About 24 hours after an injection in my hip, I began to experience burning and pain in my hip. When I checked the site, I had developed a half-dollar size deep purple spot that was surrounded by a lighter purple colored ring. The darkest part,[Show More]I too have MS and have been taking Copaxone since my dx 8 years ago. I have had site reactions such as swelling, redness, piting of my skin, itchiness....About 24 hours after an injection in my hip, I began to experience burning and pain in my hip. When I checked the site, I had developed a half-dollar size deep purple spot that was surrounded by a lighter purple colored ring. The darkest part, the center became raised and warm to the touch....never a good sign. I became rather alarmed since it was my guess that I had an infection. My gp confirmed this and put me on a cycle of cipro. It is 2 weeks later and the spot has shrunk but the center is now a gray color and numb. I am concerned that this spot is dead skin and that what will be left is a disgusting scar. Taking Copaxone is challenging enough but this really makes it much worse.

• HellenMarch 17, 2011 at 5:49 am

  I just purchased a box of alcohol prep swabs from CVS pharmacy, are they safe? Has all the contaminated products been removed from stores by now?

• SamCatMarch 16, 2011 at 1:22 am

  Did I miss the answer to the first post. Are these not self steralizing? Also, I still have some in my posession I am using. It explains much. I am fair skin, thought it was just from that. Will pursue more comments later. Apology if spelling is bad. Do not wish to be stereotyped. Not the place.

• DawnMarch 11, 2011 at 2:27 am

  Today, 03/10/2011 I found out about the recall, by accident! I have been administering my Copaxone shot daily with the enclosed Triad alcohol wipes ever since I began using Copaxone (2007.) Last night was the last time I used the alcohol wipe and the new box of Copaxone that I picked up from the pharmacy was on 02/26/2011. There are no words for me to properly express my frustration. My injection [Show More]Today, 03/10/2011 I found out about the recall, by accident! I have been administering my Copaxone shot daily with the enclosed Triad alcohol wipes ever since I began using Copaxone (2007.) Last night was the last time I used the alcohol wipe and the new box of Copaxone that I picked up from the pharmacy was on 02/26/2011. There are no words for me to properly express my frustration. My injection sites started hurting more and I didn't know why, this coupled with nausea and headaches, dry heaves (pardon me) stomach issues x10, has been more than disconcerting. Now I need to contact Rite Aid's corporate office and ask them if they are aware that they are dispensing a product that contains a recalled product within it and what is their protocol for such an occurence. I would love it if someone were to tell me I now have the "new" product and what I received was not part of the recall but I fear this is not the case. I have been living on Pepto and this is really upsetting.

• LisaMarch 9, 2011 at 11:28 pm

  My husband has been using Triad Adhesive removers on his ostomy site are they safe or in the recall also?

• ShannonMarch 8, 2011 at 8:05 pm

  I have been using these alcohol swabs for over a year off and on. I don't use them for injections but to clean my face after work. For almost a year I have been getting a rash around my stomach and chest. I have a couple of pads left from my third or fourth box I purchased. I went to see my doctor a few months ago about the rash and she said it looked like a fungus type rash and prescribed an ant[Show More]I have been using these alcohol swabs for over a year off and on. I don't use them for injections but to clean my face after work. For almost a year I have been getting a rash around my stomach and chest. I have a couple of pads left from my third or fourth box I purchased. I went to see my doctor a few months ago about the rash and she said it looked like a fungus type rash and prescribed an anti fungal cream. The cream made it go away for awhile but the rash kept coming back. I never stopped using the alcohol pads because I thought they were safe and didn't know where the rash was coming from. I thought the rash could be from the the six fish oil pills I take a day for high cholesterol. I started using them both around the same time, now that I think about it. I just thought the fish oil was causing the rash. I never thought it could be the alcohol swabs. Can you please tell me if this is one of the symptoms and what I can do to make sure I didn't get permanent damaged from these possibly infected swabs??? Thanks, Shannon

• ShannonMarch 8, 2011 at 4:21 pm

  Alcohol is not effective against bacillus spores

• velmaMarch 7, 2011 at 12:38 am

  Another day of my stomach hurting, UTI, earache, red face, breathing difficulties, irritability, Copaxone user, MS & have a compromised immune system. Wondering the effects on bones and joints, spinal cord, central nervous system liver, heart lungs, is death imminent?

• kellyMarch 3, 2011 at 10:13 pm

  my son is suffering from this right now, went in and got childhood immunizations and 2.5 months later wound wont heal and has puss oozing out... Doctors kept saying its normal to have a reaction to shots... well they arent saying that any longer...

• cynthiaMarch 3, 2011 at 5:31 pm

  I have ms and i've been using the pads also but I had to have surgery on my back last June and after that I started clawing myself and then we started noticing the right side of my stomach and I started looking like somebody deform.I went to my ms doctor and they let me know ms don't work that way.So then the stomach doctor and still nothing.So now went to family doctor for a checkup and I had re[Show More]I have ms and i've been using the pads also but I had to have surgery on my back last June and after that I started clawing myself and then we started noticing the right side of my stomach and I started looking like somebody deform.I went to my ms doctor and they let me know ms don't work that way.So then the stomach doctor and still nothing.So now went to family doctor for a checkup and I had real bad bacteria in my bladder so now i'm having to go for ultrasound to see what it shows. When I said the right side of my stomach don;t look right it looks flat with the skin hanging and the left side is right.And I used the pads and notice places BUT who would think about a bacteria in your alcohol..

• AELEISFebruary 28, 2011 at 4:51 am

  I AM A OWNER OF A 2004 CHRYSLER SEBRING WHICH IS MY ONLY MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION. 2 YEARS AGO I BEGIN TO HAVE ENGINE ISSUES. NOW AS OF 5 MONTHS, I CONTINUE TO PAY FOR A CAR WITH A BAD MOTOR(2.7) AND THE CAR CAN'T BE DRIVEN. CHRYSLER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR MANUFACTURING SUCH A MOTOR THAT WASN'T OF QUALITY AND SHOULD BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE

• CathyFebruary 26, 2011 at 3:27 am

  Ive been using them on my newborn sons belly button. :( I bought mine at target. Theyre the up & up brand.

• tjdFebruary 25, 2011 at 7:33 pm

  Sue: Did you ever find out any more information about pseudomonas? After a procedure at my ob/gyn, where they used a Triad swab, I developed a pseudomonas infection and was hospitalized for 8 days.

• ericFebruary 25, 2011 at 2:17 am

  My 19 month old daughter developed bacterial meningitis November, 2010. We almost lost her. She had seizures, fevere, etc. She was comatized for nine days. She now has a shunt and can't walk, crawl, etc. She has to relearn everything. Hopefully she will be able to. She has never been sick before this, not even an ear infection. One week before she was diagnosed she got a flu shot. Immedian[Show More]My 19 month old daughter developed bacterial meningitis November, 2010. We almost lost her. She had seizures, fevere, etc. She was comatized for nine days. She now has a shunt and can't walk, crawl, etc. She has to relearn everything. Hopefully she will be able to. She has never been sick before this, not even an ear infection. One week before she was diagnosed she got a flu shot. Immediantly after the shot she had diarrhea, low grade fever, etc. How do I find out if she contracted this infection from the alcohol swab? I know we could call the pediatrician office and ask if the Triad swabs were used, but we are afraid they will not tell us.

• AliciaFebruary 24, 2011 at 7:57 pm

  I've been using the recalled insertion trays, alcohol swabs and sterile lubricating jelly...like all of you I have also had issues this past year. In 2010 I was on antibiotics six times, went to a dermatologist, a wound clinic and urgent care. I had 2 cultures taken one was from a rash on my hand that was seeping the other urine culture. Maybe I should back track and find out what type of bacte[Show More]I've been using the recalled insertion trays, alcohol swabs and sterile lubricating jelly...like all of you I have also had issues this past year. In 2010 I was on antibiotics six times, went to a dermatologist, a wound clinic and urgent care. I had 2 cultures taken one was from a rash on my hand that was seeping the other urine culture. Maybe I should back track and find out what type of bacteria was found!!!!

• VelmaFebruary 24, 2011 at 4:38 pm

  MSer/Copaxone user...compromised immune system. Gained over 20 pounds in fluid, earache, flu like symptoms, crippling migraines, nausea that felt like violent appendicitis attack.....led me to ER, where I was prescribed: PROMETHAZINE, an intravenous MORPHINE Injection, and HYOSCYAMINE. That was six weeks ago and ALL symptoms are still there. Serious concern for my longterm health and afraid I am [Show More]MSer/Copaxone user...compromised immune system. Gained over 20 pounds in fluid, earache, flu like symptoms, crippling migraines, nausea that felt like violent appendicitis attack.....led me to ER, where I was prescribed: PROMETHAZINE, an intravenous MORPHINE Injection, and HYOSCYAMINE. That was six weeks ago and ALL symptoms are still there. Serious concern for my longterm health and afraid I am gonna die. This OKIE wants answers, out of pain and shutdown of Triad factory, of course after we find out what we were actually contaminated with.

• StephanieFebruary 23, 2011 at 12:01 am

  Yeah I have been using them too and the side of my leg has been itching like crazy I have been itching so bad I have a humungus bruise on my leg ..... Going to the doctor I better be getting refunded for this!!!!!!!!!!!!

• ElizabethFebruary 22, 2011 at 7:33 pm

  I am diabetic. I have a box of Triad Alcohol Swabs I purchashed at Rite Aid. In 9/2009 somehow I contracted sepsis and landed in the hospital. It was a very scary time. I also has surgery a little over a year ago. Currently I have "MRSA", I am going to ask for some blood testing to be done to find out exactly what bacteria is in my system. I feel like an 80 yr old woman. I am also fastidio[Show More]I am diabetic. I have a box of Triad Alcohol Swabs I purchashed at Rite Aid. In 9/2009 somehow I contracted sepsis and landed in the hospital. It was a very scary time. I also has surgery a little over a year ago. Currently I have "MRSA", I am going to ask for some blood testing to be done to find out exactly what bacteria is in my system. I feel like an 80 yr old woman. I am also fastidious about hand washing and germs etc. because I am diabetic. Always so careful.... so to have had these things happen is devastating. I am not returning my swabs to the store. I might have them tested at an independant lab. I just wonder if it's all connected. I don't really believe in coincidences. Unreal.

• aprilFebruary 22, 2011 at 6:03 pm

  i had surgery at the end of 2007 the following day i fell ill with severe vomiting and diarrhea much to the bewilderment of hospital staff and now i'm wondering if this was the cause

• TrueFebruary 22, 2011 at 5:50 pm

  I have been using be alcohol wipes every day for the past nine months I have had sosmach flu symbols and weird infections on my eyes and face

• lindaFebruary 20, 2011 at 11:43 pm

  my daughter has ms, she takes copaxone shots daily and uses the Triad Alcohol preps,she has been sick since Aug. of 2010, been to doctors, had test and scans but still no better because it seems they cannot find what is wrong. she has headaches, nausea, stomach pains,cannot eat bvecause her stomach hurts so bad, she is loosing weight,says she is about ready to give up.

• ashleyFebruary 20, 2011 at 3:14 pm

  i have ms and have been takeing copaxon after two hours i got a horbail rash all over and when i did the shot it was so pain full i cryed. i called shared solutions they told me i was alergic to it i stoped the shots and had a relapse that lasted a week that was so bad i had to go to the hospital. then i get this paper in the mail saying the alchol pads were recalled. so i started up on the shots [Show More]i have ms and have been takeing copaxon after two hours i got a horbail rash all over and when i did the shot it was so pain full i cryed. i called shared solutions they told me i was alergic to it i stoped the shots and had a relapse that lasted a week that was so bad i had to go to the hospital. then i get this paper in the mail saying the alchol pads were recalled. so i started up on the shots agein without the alchol just soap and water....no rash a very little pain hmmmmmm now what should i do? if i have another leasion (witch i only have on my spine and they cause me a great deal of pain) because of the relapse shouldent i sue or something? i mean ms isent a joke and neiter or the leasions im so aggervated that an alchol pad can do this

• DANIELFebruary 18, 2011 at 1:54 am

  I HAVE USED THIS PRODUCT ONLY BRIEFLY. I have redness and serious dry skin. I still have the product that was included in COPAXONE injection box.Any suggestions?

• peterFebruary 16, 2011 at 9:40 pm

  I just came to know about the recall. Do not use any products made by Triad as they are subpotent and contaminated. Triad's own micro and q.c. tests are a joke. The company is very dirty and filthy. Poor hygiene. Employees are temps. Machines are not washed. E. Hurtle, D. Hurtle and a sisiter, are greedy and are aware of these problems for years. They make "contaminated" enemas. Hemmrhoid p[Show More]I just came to know about the recall. Do not use any products made by Triad as they are subpotent and contaminated. Triad's own micro and q.c. tests are a joke. The company is very dirty and filthy. Poor hygiene. Employees are temps. Machines are not washed. E. Hurtle, D. Hurtle and a sisiter, are greedy and are aware of these problems for years. They make "contaminated" enemas. Hemmrhoid pads, PVP and alcohol swabs sold under Walgreens, BD etc. names also. Jelly, alcohol swabs fail micro tests prior to sterilization. To the enema they add bleach so micro tests pass.

• BobbyFebruary 16, 2011 at 3:21 am

  I have MS and have been using the triad alcohol pads with my injections, and I broke out with a very serious rash that has lasted for more than two weeks. It was so bad that I had to go to the emergency room last Saturday, 2/12/11 and get a shot, given some steroids, and given two seperate prescriptions. The infection did not go away until I saw these arcticles and stopped using the pads. The is j[Show More]I have MS and have been using the triad alcohol pads with my injections, and I broke out with a very serious rash that has lasted for more than two weeks. It was so bad that I had to go to the emergency room last Saturday, 2/12/11 and get a shot, given some steroids, and given two seperate prescriptions. The infection did not go away until I saw these arcticles and stopped using the pads. The is just ridiculous. It's not bad enough to have to deal with MS, but then to have the burden of getting a bacterial skin infection is just CRAZY!!!!

• TomFebruary 15, 2011 at 8:45 pm

  Do NOT buy anything made in America.....total trash.

• LanaFebruary 15, 2011 at 5:37 pm

  My problems started 3/08 . I had an infection in the liining of my stomach,after many tests, doctors visits, and being on antibiotics many times, i finally hope i'm on the road to recovery. I was so miserable,couldn't eat or sleep, i was in so much pain it was horrible. I also gained 45lbs. of bloat. I have now lost it and it feels great. I'm just wondering if using the alcohol swabs was what ca[Show More]My problems started 3/08 . I had an infection in the liining of my stomach,after many tests, doctors visits, and being on antibiotics many times, i finally hope i'm on the road to recovery. I was so miserable,couldn't eat or sleep, i was in so much pain it was horrible. I also gained 45lbs. of bloat. I have now lost it and it feels great. I'm just wondering if using the alcohol swabs was what caused all this? I think it was.

• DanFebruary 15, 2011 at 4:47 am

  This potentially raises the stakes - "Family blames son's death on alcohol swabs" - http://weareaustin.com/fulltext?nxd_id=122256 . They blame the swabs used to clean their 2-year-old's spinal drain for a fatal spinal menengitis infection.

• LyndaFebruary 15, 2011 at 2:00 am

  What should we use to clean site now? I have a 12 year daughter with type 1 diabetes. She gets injected every three days and a few months ago she had gotten an absest on one of her sites could this be related?

• joaneFebruary 14, 2011 at 7:51 pm

  How do you determine which prep pads are inthe recall? I bought my prep pads about a year ago so i wonder if its included..I used it a lot on my son and i have been worried about his lips /wc have been bleeding a lot and are so dry, oarched and seem to be like potholes.

• KarlFebruary 14, 2011 at 4:22 pm

  I use Triad pads for glucose testing and interfuron injections; two different colors blue/red. I have had skin irritations and severe itching along arms, lateral sides of legs (to the hip) and extreme cases around my ankles, for about 5 months. The scabbing will not go away and in the morning I have new scabbing where I have scratched during the night. Is there an antibiotic that will get rid of t[Show More]I use Triad pads for glucose testing and interfuron injections; two different colors blue/red. I have had skin irritations and severe itching along arms, lateral sides of legs (to the hip) and extreme cases around my ankles, for about 5 months. The scabbing will not go away and in the morning I have new scabbing where I have scratched during the night. Is there an antibiotic that will get rid of this? If so, which one?

• PamFebruary 14, 2011 at 3:23 am

  I too had this rash, mine started months ago (like Oct-10), I went to the dr. several times but he could not tell what the rash was. it was itchy with white spots and red rash, he gave me a cream that helped the rash but did not know what it was. So about three weeks forward I returned to the dr. he said it looked like an infection under my skin and put me on antibiotics for 10days. Felt better, [Show More]I too had this rash, mine started months ago (like Oct-10), I went to the dr. several times but he could not tell what the rash was. it was itchy with white spots and red rash, he gave me a cream that helped the rash but did not know what it was. So about three weeks forward I returned to the dr. he said it looked like an infection under my skin and put me on antibiotics for 10days. Felt better, but rash did not totally go away and it returned with new areas of red itchy rash that made me feel like I wanted to crawl out of my skin. Continued to get worse, and skin felt terrible, I was very tired and irritable and just didn't feel good. I knew nothing of this recall until I called regarding my meds and heard this message about the wipes being recalled. Well that explains my situation. Rash so bad I went to a dermatologist who said more than likey it was this rash and put me on antibiotics for 1 month, gave me a Rx for cream, another special cream to use and I was told to take a very warm bath with 1/2 cup bleach and soak, then shower, pat dry and apply cream and come back in one month. After taking the antibiotics my skin felt a lot better.

• LonnieFebruary 13, 2011 at 4:35 pm

  I'm diabetic and have been looking for alcohol swabs for a few weeks now. This is the first I've seen or heard the reason for the recall. Ok now, I understand the recall is for Triad products, I have used them in the past, as most of us have. I was wondering if B.D swabs are included in that recall? Thanks for the info.

• sueFebruary 11, 2011 at 1:12 pm

  Hi my husband uses interferon for his hep C, got a letter stating triad pads have been recalled this happened in jan 2011 its now feb why is this allowed to happen. He has been seriously ill since late december vomiting diorehea, then chronic constipation also the bruising on the injection site and scabs rashes all over back and neck. He has been complaining of how ill he has been feeling to spe[Show More]Hi my husband uses interferon for his hep C, got a letter stating triad pads have been recalled this happened in jan 2011 its now feb why is this allowed to happen. He has been seriously ill since late december vomiting diorehea, then chronic constipation also the bruising on the injection site and scabs rashes all over back and neck. He has been complaining of how ill he has been feeling to specailist for well over six weeks and no one has mentioned this issue !!! appauling.

• sueFebruary 10, 2011 at 11:36 pm

  does anyone remember when the recall first came out they said the bacteria was pseudomona aerugnosa if you remember this please get in touch thank you

• TalithaFebruary 7, 2011 at 7:31 pm

  My 11 yr old son is a diabetic and has been using these swabs since he was diagnosed in October of 2009. I have noticed lately that his shots seem to hurt more when given, and also he has quiet a bit of bruising at the injection site. He has also been sick a lot recently, I thought it was because of his compromised immune system and the weather. I just wish the company would give more information [Show More]My 11 yr old son is a diabetic and has been using these swabs since he was diagnosed in October of 2009. I have noticed lately that his shots seem to hurt more when given, and also he has quiet a bit of bruising at the injection site. He has also been sick a lot recently, I thought it was because of his compromised immune system and the weather. I just wish the company would give more information about the 1 case they based this all on so we would know what to expect.

• LindaFebruary 7, 2011 at 9:52 am

  I have been using these pads with my Betaseron injections. Since Dec. 28, I have had two injection site infections on my abdomen. I am on my third round of antibiotics. The first healed fairly quickly. The second infection started about a week after the first, accompanied by a great deal of pain and hardness around the area. It hurt even when not touched. I've been to my family doctor four t[Show More]I have been using these pads with my Betaseron injections. Since Dec. 28, I have had two injection site infections on my abdomen. I am on my third round of antibiotics. The first healed fairly quickly. The second infection started about a week after the first, accompanied by a great deal of pain and hardness around the area. It hurt even when not touched. I've been to my family doctor four times and a dermatologist, who basically did nothing. I am finally debriding the wound myself (at my GP's suggestion) to remove the necrotic skin. It is finally looking better, but the pain is still present although it's now bearable. A heating pad seems to help somewhat. I am sooooo tired of this!!!

• GeraldFebruary 3, 2011 at 9:23 pm

  I am taking injections of Peginterferon Allfa-2a for Hep c. I have blisters on bth arms and legs at the injection sites that turn into sores. These sores are very painful even to the touch of clothing, I've been to doctors to try to heal them, then I got an ergent message from Pegasys to stop the Triad Prep Pads and geat rid of any I had left. I was told of the recall. What do we do to pro[Show More]I am taking injections of Peginterferon Allfa-2a for Hep c. I have blisters on bth arms and legs at the injection sites that turn into sores. These sores are very painful even to the touch of clothing, I've been to doctors to try to heal them, then I got an ergent message from Pegasys to stop the Triad Prep Pads and geat rid of any I had left. I was told of the recall. What do we do to protect our health and wellbeing? I am trying to live the best and most productive life I can with the problelm I have.

• Rob SFebruary 3, 2011 at 7:16 am

  So I've got a question. I understand alcohol doesn't kill bacillus cereus, but I also know that it grows in organic matter. The only thing organic used to make isopropyl alcohol is petroleum. At what stage was other organic matter introduced? What did the bacteria grow in? Reduced number of factory employees didn't allow time for proper sterilization and there was a build up of dirt? Dead ski[Show More]So I've got a question. I understand alcohol doesn't kill bacillus cereus, but I also know that it grows in organic matter. The only thing organic used to make isopropyl alcohol is petroleum. At what stage was other organic matter introduced? What did the bacteria grow in? Reduced number of factory employees didn't allow time for proper sterilization and there was a build up of dirt? Dead skin cells? Tainted water? Dead mouse? Half a Philly cheese steak? Probably not the last one but it should be publicly addressed. http://www.triad-group.net/media/pdf/Recal_Facts.pdf I don't think this covers it. Who does a voluntary recall and states that ONE potential case caused it all?

• TracyFebruary 2, 2011 at 1:06 am

  I also have been using the triad alcohol wipes with my Copaxone. I did an injection on my right thigh. The next day the area had a huge red spot. Then after a few days it turned purple with a red line around the whole thing. It was shaped like the upper pennisula of Michigan. A month later it turned black . The black fell off a month after that and I had 1/2 inch deep indent in my thigh. I had a c[Show More]I also have been using the triad alcohol wipes with my Copaxone. I did an injection on my right thigh. The next day the area had a huge red spot. Then after a few days it turned purple with a red line around the whole thing. It was shaped like the upper pennisula of Michigan. A month later it turned black . The black fell off a month after that and I had 1/2 inch deep indent in my thigh. I had a culture done and had 3 different infections in it. My doctor said they didn't know why it had done this. I called shared solutions and they said it was a nicked vein and I had the depth too deep. Now I have a nasty scar that is about 6 inches long, 2 inches wide 1/2 inch deep. I received another shipment of copaxone on 1-25 -11 and there was still traid wipes in the box. WHY!!!!

• AlyceJanuary 31, 2011 at 2:00 am

  What I find really disheartening is that Shared Solutions calls all of the time to find out how you are doing and to check in on you. They call too much frankly. I have not heard from them this month. I got no notice from either the manufacturer of Copaxone and their Shared Solution service or from the Walgreens pharmacy where I get my meds. I stumbled across the recall from my google alerts fe[Show More]What I find really disheartening is that Shared Solutions calls all of the time to find out how you are doing and to check in on you. They call too much frankly. I have not heard from them this month. I got no notice from either the manufacturer of Copaxone and their Shared Solution service or from the Walgreens pharmacy where I get my meds. I stumbled across the recall from my google alerts feed for Copaxone and MS. Even when my husband picked up my most recent prescription last week, the pharmacist made no mention not to use the included alcohol swabs. How is this possible?!?!

• RoyJanuary 31, 2011 at 1:20 am

  I too have been using the Triad sterile alcohol prep pads. I too wondered if it contains alcohol, then why didn't it kill the bacteria within the pad??? The companies which provided us with our medication and which included the alchol swabs should have infomred us about it. No responsibility there. I've been having problems with injeciton sites for months now, including bruisis that won't heal ver[Show More]I too have been using the Triad sterile alcohol prep pads. I too wondered if it contains alcohol, then why didn't it kill the bacteria within the pad??? The companies which provided us with our medication and which included the alchol swabs should have infomred us about it. No responsibility there. I've been having problems with injeciton sites for months now, including bruisis that won't heal very fast, and areas that were very painful afterwards, as if I had hit a major nerve site. Is it connected? I dunno, but I'm wondering now. I feel very disappointed in my medication provider now - if I can't trust them to educate me in a timely manner regarding such an apparent minor thing like an alcohol swab, how can I trust them with something bigger, such as with the medication itself???

• DawnaJanuary 29, 2011 at 6:48 pm

  I have MS, I also had a central line placed for medication, and would care. I I'm si careful not to get an infection. I went the hospital, I was a direct admit to ICU. I developed a infection that am Lost killed me. I developed large abscess in my arms and thighs , my sister is a doctor. I kept complaint how miserable I am, pain with draining the wounds /infections. We sometimes draw massive amoun[Show More]I have MS, I also had a central line placed for medication, and would care. I I'm si careful not to get an infection. I went the hospital, I was a direct admit to ICU. I developed a infection that am Lost killed me. I developed large abscess in my arms and thighs , my sister is a doctor. I kept complaint how miserable I am, pain with draining the wounds /infections. We sometimes draw massive amounts of pus from these areas. We have to do this everyday. I was on antibiotics for over a month.at home, for 2 weeks in the hospital. I had developed sepsis and almost died, I thought I had become allergic to the needles.I was unaware of the recall until the pharmacy told me 2days ago when I picked up my injections. No other information given.

• TrishaJanuary 29, 2011 at 12:28 am

  I have just completed 11 months of treatment to beat Hepatitus C. I had to take an injection once a week during that time using these Triad prep pads. I have had and AM having the same reaction as Caron. SOme injection sites swelled up and looked almost like a boil. Plus thses itched constantly! I thought it was from the copegasus Ribavirin after building up for 11 months. But I am now finished wi[Show More]I have just completed 11 months of treatment to beat Hepatitus C. I had to take an injection once a week during that time using these Triad prep pads. I have had and AM having the same reaction as Caron. SOme injection sites swelled up and looked almost like a boil. Plus thses itched constantly! I thought it was from the copegasus Ribavirin after building up for 11 months. But I am now finished with the treatments and STILL have massive sores now that seem to have 'spread', which would be strange if this were caused by Interferon. I have tried everything over the counter and prescribed by my physicials. Nothing has be able to stop the itching nor get these 'spots' to close and heal. May I assume, based on what I've read above, that this is not from the treatments I was on for 11 months, but more likely some infection that IO now have from exposure and use of the supplied Triad Prep Pads? I haven't read all of the posts, but wonder if anyone else noticed how there's also mirros what I have experienced? Ands if so, how did you get rid of this infection and finally heal? Thanks for any help or advice y'all can forward my way! BTW, None of my Doctors have been able to pin oint a cause, only have ruled out everything else but maybe a reaction to the Copegasys. Now, there may be a different source for this horrid skin condition that I have had for the past three months! Signed 'Itching so much it's driving me crazy!" - near Seattle - please HELP! -Trisha

• robJanuary 28, 2011 at 8:32 pm

  B. Cereus can form spores, which would not necessarily be killed by 70% alcohol. These spores can also resist heat very well too, so they can be nasty little buggers. Throw out the product.

• JacintheJanuary 28, 2011 at 8:26 pm

  skin rash and I use them for face and skin desinfection!

• ILENEJanuary 27, 2011 at 4:19 am

  I USE THE SWABS FROM RELI-ON. ARE THEY ON RECALL ALSO?

• RobertJanuary 27, 2011 at 2:45 am

  Yesterday, my wife called me at work to tell me she was sick. If not for her usual greeting, I would not have recognized her voice. She has been using Copaxone for well over a year for MS along with the Triad swabs. I work closely with many physicians, so my first thought was some sort of strep infection (some of her symptoms also are the same as a strep infection). I have been monitoring her heal[Show More]Yesterday, my wife called me at work to tell me she was sick. If not for her usual greeting, I would not have recognized her voice. She has been using Copaxone for well over a year for MS along with the Triad swabs. I work closely with many physicians, so my first thought was some sort of strep infection (some of her symptoms also are the same as a strep infection). I have been monitoring her health for some time & continue to do so. Whatever you do, DO NOT IGNORE THIS RECALL!!!

• JenJanuary 26, 2011 at 12:12 am

  I am a Type 1 Diabetic and use their swabs on a regular basis. Just found out about the recall last week. I had my blood drawn last week for my diabetes appt. today. My white blood cell count was through the roof. My doctor asked if I had an infection. I told him no, but then I remembered the recall.

• RichardJanuary 25, 2011 at 9:51 pm

  I have been using Walgreens Swabs/with pain killer for some time. I have had various reactions where I do my injections and blood testing a total of 9 times per day.I have had inflamed sores, redness, swelling. I scratch and irritate the area and I end up putting a first aid oinment on it. Now I know why. Went to wallgreens and asked why they didn,t have any at the Pill counter and was told they w[Show More]I have been using Walgreens Swabs/with pain killer for some time. I have had various reactions where I do my injections and blood testing a total of 9 times per day.I have had inflamed sores, redness, swelling. I scratch and irritate the area and I end up putting a first aid oinment on it. Now I know why. Went to wallgreens and asked why they didn,t have any at the Pill counter and was told they were just out of them.WHY IN THE HELL DOESN"T SOMEONE PUT IT ON THE AIR!!!

• KiaJanuary 25, 2011 at 9:18 pm

  I use the pads for my ms injections...was in the hospital for a relasp and they found a lot of bacteria in my blood and put me on a iv of antibiotics for two days the infections dept. Came and said the meds cleared it up but cvs just called me today about the recall so I need to go get my blood drawn and see if it came back

• NickieaJanuary 25, 2011 at 1:17 am

  I am also a Copaxone user and get the prep wipes with my shipment. I have been having negative reactions at the injection site for months now, that were not explained by the injection itself. At first I never had a skin reaction and then all of a sudden I started having soreness, bruising and rashes. I kept asking my doctor and Shared solutions whether it was normal to have rashes and bruising, th[Show More]I am also a Copaxone user and get the prep wipes with my shipment. I have been having negative reactions at the injection site for months now, that were not explained by the injection itself. At first I never had a skin reaction and then all of a sudden I started having soreness, bruising and rashes. I kept asking my doctor and Shared solutions whether it was normal to have rashes and bruising, that never seem to go away, especially since I had nurse after nurse adjust the depth and site of injection. This explains so much. I have one spot currently that has been inflamed and sore for days. What the hell are we supposed to do about this? Most of us have been contaminating ourselves for months especially if you have ever hit a capillary or small vein. Here I am thinking I am sterilizing the surface and instead I am putting myself at risk.

• LisaJanuary 24, 2011 at 10:08 pm

  I was dx with MS in april 2010 and I swear since I started using copaxone and the wipes I was sicker now then I was before I was dx- I have had horrible skin rashes, hives, itching, and was beyond sick on January 11-13 and still continue with the itching....was there even alcohol in the swabs?

• GARYJanuary 24, 2011 at 8:08 pm

  recently I have been getting very sick, and just finished with antibiotics, been using these pads for 2 years with my ms copaxone shots, been getting rashes and abdominal pains, still have sore throat for about 6 days, and flu like symtptoms just read letter today, have been very worried as well

• georgeJanuary 22, 2011 at 11:37 pm

  for anyone who has gotten rash or other reaction, there's a place to file report on the fda.gov site: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/medwatch-online.htm

• jenniferJanuary 21, 2011 at 2:55 am

  i also use triad alcohol for my ms injections(betaseron) my injections sites have been very sore and red spots that arent going away. Ive also had a more than average stomach/diarrhea issue the last few weeks. Im so worried. Also had blood work done dec 27th which was abnormal my doctor didn't really seem to care.. And I ALSO ONLY FOUND OUT ABOUT THIS TODAY.I got a letter from curascript stating n[Show More]i also use triad alcohol for my ms injections(betaseron) my injections sites have been very sore and red spots that arent going away. Ive also had a more than average stomach/diarrhea issue the last few weeks. Im so worried. Also had blood work done dec 27th which was abnormal my doctor didn't really seem to care.. And I ALSO ONLY FOUND OUT ABOUT THIS TODAY.I got a letter from curascript stating not to use them... its January20th????? this happened January 7th wtf

• rickJanuary 21, 2011 at 2:37 am

  like the other copaxone users i had a site reaction also. it went from a bruise to an open wound. my g.p. said it reminded him of a brown recluse spider bite. even though its healed it took over 2 months. theres an indentation in my arm now. at least i know what happened now.

• TIONYAJanuary 19, 2011 at 9:52 pm

  COPAXONE USER TOO. DID ANYONE HAVE A TINGLING, NUMBING FEELING AT THEIR INJECTION SITE THAT BRUISED? MINE WAS JUST AT THE SITE AND IN THE NEAR AREA......NOT AN MS ISSUE AT ALL. IT LASTED FOR A COUPLE OF WEEKS. I ASKED WALGREEN'S ABOUT THIS LESS THAN 3 WEEKS AGO AND THEY WEREN'T SURE WHAT IT WAS. I'M WONDERING IF IT WAS FROM THIS! I HAVE ALSO HAD AN ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF CHILLS OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF[Show More]COPAXONE USER TOO. DID ANYONE HAVE A TINGLING, NUMBING FEELING AT THEIR INJECTION SITE THAT BRUISED? MINE WAS JUST AT THE SITE AND IN THE NEAR AREA......NOT AN MS ISSUE AT ALL. IT LASTED FOR A COUPLE OF WEEKS. I ASKED WALGREEN'S ABOUT THIS LESS THAN 3 WEEKS AGO AND THEY WEREN'T SURE WHAT IT WAS. I'M WONDERING IF IT WAS FROM THIS! I HAVE ALSO HAD AN ENORMOUS AMOUNT OF CHILLS OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF MONTHS. THIS WEEK I STARTED BATTLING FLU SYMPTOMS. TIRED, WEAK AND THE BIG "D". THAT PART DOESN'T SEEM TO BE LEAVING ANYTIME SOON ALL THIS IS VERY INTERESTING!

• JimJanuary 19, 2011 at 5:32 pm

  I use these swabs to inject insulin, I've been using them for awhile without any problem. My concern is with any potential infection in the future. This bacteria may lay dormant under the skin. VERY CONCERNED!!!!!!!!!

• krystalJanuary 15, 2011 at 12:54 am

  I also been using copaxone I was getting painful bruises and some times my injection would turn into a blister. Ive had bruises last almost a whole month. Especially on the stomach I made many calls to shared solution telling them my problem but every time they said I was not doing the right depth with the shot. This is very worrisome I mean isn't alcohol pads suppose to kill things like bacteria[Show More]I also been using copaxone I was getting painful bruises and some times my injection would turn into a blister. Ive had bruises last almost a whole month. Especially on the stomach I made many calls to shared solution telling them my problem but every time they said I was not doing the right depth with the shot. This is very worrisome I mean isn't alcohol pads suppose to kill things like bacteria. VERY STRANGE!

• MarvinJanuary 14, 2011 at 11:08 pm

  My wife Sherry also has an infection in her belly were she takes shots for MS

• CaronJanuary 14, 2011 at 5:33 pm

  I forgot to mention that I was using the Triad alchohol pads that were supplied in the box of injections I received every month. When I started getting these strange bruises/infections, I was lectured by my doctor and hospital about cleaning the site properly with the alchohol pads before each injection. What a JOKE!

• SandraJanuary 14, 2011 at 3:32 pm

  I have Triad Adhesive tape remover pads from your company are they in the recall also.

• CaronJanuary 14, 2011 at 1:12 am

  My story is similar to Vickie's, used Copaxone (for MS). I've had atleast 3 infections in injection sites on my body. The worst one required visits to the wound center in a local hospital for months. It started as a very painful bruise, then all the layers of tissue died, and had to be cut out of the back of my arm. The healing process took forever because the MS medication interferes with your im[Show More]My story is similar to Vickie's, used Copaxone (for MS). I've had atleast 3 infections in injection sites on my body. The worst one required visits to the wound center in a local hospital for months. It started as a very painful bruise, then all the layers of tissue died, and had to be cut out of the back of my arm. The healing process took forever because the MS medication interferes with your immune system. Now I'm left with a huge ugly scar.

• RobertJanuary 13, 2011 at 8:50 pm

  Also use Copaxone and I have a scab now on my left hip after an injection there. It was a huge bruise that looked like someone gave me a good punch and has since dwindled down to the scab. Glad to now know what it was. I contacted my doctor to see if anything can be done.

• SonjiJanuary 13, 2011 at 2:25 am

  OMG,I HAVE BEEN USING THE TRAID ALCOHOL SWABS FOR SOME MONTHS NOW I USE THEM WHEN I TAKE MY M S SHOT AND I USE USE IT AFTER MY M S SHOT TO CLEAN THE AREA,IT IS SO SCARY NOW I HAD THE STREP THROAT,AND A RASH ON BOTH OF MY HANDS AND JUST THE OTHER DAY I HAD TO GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM DUE TO MIGRAINE AND VOMITING AND CHILLS AND IM FEELIN A LITTLE BETTER NOW BUT I VOMIT AGAIN SINCE I'VE BEEN HOME IM [Show More]OMG,I HAVE BEEN USING THE TRAID ALCOHOL SWABS FOR SOME MONTHS NOW I USE THEM WHEN I TAKE MY M S SHOT AND I USE USE IT AFTER MY M S SHOT TO CLEAN THE AREA,IT IS SO SCARY NOW I HAD THE STREP THROAT,AND A RASH ON BOTH OF MY HANDS AND JUST THE OTHER DAY I HAD TO GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM DUE TO MIGRAINE AND VOMITING AND CHILLS AND IM FEELIN A LITTLE BETTER NOW BUT I VOMIT AGAIN SINCE I'VE BEEN HOME IM STILL FEELIN A LITTLE NAUSA BUT THE DOCTOR PRESCRIBE ME PROMETHAZINE,HYDROCODON,IBUPROFEN,WHATS REALLY GOING ON IM SO SCARED.

• VickieJanuary 12, 2011 at 9:12 pm

  This explains the strange skin irratation/rash/scab I've had on my thigh for over two months. I use copaxone (MS Drug) that sent the Triad wipes with the prescription. After one of the daily injections, the area was red and swollen. A few days later I had red like bruising that was very sensitive to the touch. That scabbed over which seemed like over a month. That was a least 3 months ago and I[Show More]This explains the strange skin irratation/rash/scab I've had on my thigh for over two months. I use copaxone (MS Drug) that sent the Triad wipes with the prescription. After one of the daily injections, the area was red and swollen. A few days later I had red like bruising that was very sensitive to the touch. That scabbed over which seemed like over a month. That was a least 3 months ago and I still have a small scab on my thigh.

• StephenJanuary 12, 2011 at 4:54 pm

  I have recall alcolhol swabs from two different stores, and one is made in China and the other in USA.

• timJanuary 12, 2011 at 3:36 am

  Hey R J: I just learned of this recall. Sure enough I've got a box of the recalled product. Boldly printed on each and every packet: MADE IN USA. Triad Group, Inc., 700 West North Shore Drive, Hartland, WI 53029 to be precise. Learn to read goon.

• RonJanuary 11, 2011 at 9:03 pm

  "Hartland, Wisconsin, Triad Group, a manufacturer of over-the-counter products" "These products were distributed in the United States, Canada and Europe." Triad Group, Inc. 700 W. North Shore Drive Hartland, WI 53029 http://www.triad-group.net/ Ummm Not a Chinese distrbuter... You may want to move your comments to a more appropriate forum and keep your racial comments and stereo-types to your[Show More]"Hartland, Wisconsin, Triad Group, a manufacturer of over-the-counter products" "These products were distributed in the United States, Canada and Europe." Triad Group, Inc. 700 W. North Shore Drive Hartland, WI 53029 http://www.triad-group.net/ Ummm Not a Chinese distrbuter... You may want to move your comments to a more appropriate forum and keep your racial comments and stereo-types to yourself...

• BLAJanuary 11, 2011 at 2:01 pm

  THe alcohol pads are made in the USA. They need to be commended for being proactive in addressing this issue and protecting people.

• R JJanuary 8, 2011 at 9:55 pm

  Sad...did you buy them from China...shame on you...To all who read this...BUY ONLY PRODUCTS MADE IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA....

• BarbJanuary 8, 2011 at 5:27 pm

  Wouldn't the alcohol kill any bacteria that the swab may have been exposed to??? That is the purpose of alcohol, right?