Massive Hand Soap Recall in Montana Over Germ That Can Cause Deadly Infections

Soap is supposed to be the thing that scrubs away germs not something that leaves them behind and makes you sick. But right now, some popular hand soaps sold in Montana and across the country are doing just that, and it’s serious enough that the company is recalling them.

When the Soap Becomes the Danger

DermaRite Industries is pulling several of its antiseptic and antimicrobial soaps from shelves. The reason? They may be contaminated with a type of bacteria called Burkholderia cepacia complex. For healthy folks, this could mean nothing more than a minor skin infection if it gets into a cut or scrape. But for anyone with a weaker immune system, this bacteria can slip into the bloodstream and cause sepsis, a life threatening condition.

Meet the Germ You Don’t Want to Mess With

According to the CDC, this bacteria is usually found in soil and water and has a bad habit of resisting antibiotics. Sometimes it causes no symptoms at all, but in other cases, it can trigger serious respiratory infections, fever, fatigue, or other health problems especially if you already have lung issues like cystic fibrosis or COPD.

Which Soaps Are Involved

The recall affects products sold nationwide, including here in Montana. Some of the names you might spot in your home or at a local care facility include:

• DermaKleen: an antiseptic lotion soap with Vitamin E
• DermaSarra: for itchy, irritated skin
• KleenFoam: an antimicrobial foam soap with aloe vera
• PeriGiene: an antiseptic cleanser for the perineal area

There are multiple sizes and expiration dates, so it’s worth checking the FDA’s recall list or calling the hotline before you toss anything.

What You Should Do Right Now

The company says no illnesses have been reported yet, but they want everyone to stop using these soaps immediately. If you have one, follow your local disposal guidelines to get rid of it safely.

And if you’ve been using one of the recalled products and start feeling off, especially if you’ve got a cut, sore, or ongoing health condition, call your healthcare provider right away.

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Where to Get More Information

For questions, DermaRite’s hotline is (973) 569-9000 x104 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CT, or you can email voluntary.action@dermarite.com.

You can also report any possible reactions or quality problems to the FDA’s MedWatch program at www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm or by calling 1-800-332-1088.