Zee and Dukal Antiseptic Wipes Recalled Due to Microbial Contamination

A recall has been issued for antiseptic wipes and benzalkonium chloride (BZK) swabs sold under the Zee and Dukal brand names, due to a potential risk of microbial contamination.

The Zee and Dukal wipes recall was issued after it was discovered that the products, which are sold individually and as part of first aid and medical kits, may be contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia, a complex micro-bacteria that can lead to infection and pose a serious health risk for people with weakened immune systems, chronic lung diseases and cystic fibrosis.

Burkholderia cepacia is a bacteria typically found in soil and water that is often resistant to common antibiotics. The microbial contamination could pose a risk of lung infection and lead to cepacia syndrome, which may involve deterioration of lung function and potentially result in death.

The products, which include Zee antiseptic swabs and Dukal BZK swabs, were distributed by Dukal Corporation and made by Jianerkang Medical Dressing company in China.

“For average healthy people, the presence of Burkholderia cepacia on the swab is not likely to cause serious health risks,” the manufacturer stated in a press release issued on July 25 regarding the contaminated products.

The recall consists of selected lots of swabs and wipes, many of which were included in first-aid kits and medical kits. Although the manufacturer has indicated that there have been no reported problems in connection with the recalled antiseptic wipes, consumers have been encouraged to discontinue use and dispose of potentially infected products.

Last year a similar recall was issued for Triad wipes, swabs and alcohol prep pads, due to contamination with the bacteria Bacillus cerus. The Triad wipes were linked to hundreds of reports of problems, including at least 8 deaths.

The manufacturer of the Triad wipes and prep pads, H&P Industries, faced a number of lawsuits and regulatory problems following the recall and a settlement has already been reached in at least one wrongful death lawsuit filed by the parents of a two-year old child who died of bacterial infection that was allegedly caused by the recalled wipes.