Public advised to stop using certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) are advising the public to stop using certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes and to dispose of them.

During investigation of an outbreak, certain wipes were found to be contaminated with Burkholderia stabilis.

The following products have been found to be affected:

• ValueAid Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes
• Microsafe Moist Wipe Alcohol Free
• Steroplast Sterowipe Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes

In addition, testing also revealed contamination of Reliwipe Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes, although the contamination was deemed to be with a Burkholderia strain not related to the outbreak cases.

Further information

The UKHSA notice relates only to the products listed above. However, the public are reminded that non-sterile alcohol-free wipes should not be used for the treatment of injuries, wounds or on broken skin, nor should they be used for cleaning intravenous lines, as they are not appropriate for these purposes and their safety cannot be guaranteed.

For more information please see here:

Public advised to stop using certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes - GOV.UK

NHS guidance when treating cuts and grazes.