Key Takeaway:
- The FDA recalled MG217 eczema cream nationwide after detecting potentially dangerous Staphylococcus aureus contamination.
- No injuries reported yet, but the bacteria may cause serious or life-threatening infections, especially in vulnerable users.
- Consumers should stop using the product immediately, discard it safely, and seek medical care if symptoms appear.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says Wisconsin-based Pharmacal recalls MG217 Multi-symptom Treatment Cream & Skin Protectant Eczema Cream nationwide after contamination with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that could cause serious or life-threatening infections.
FDA Warns Contaminated Cream May Cause Serious Infections
The Food and Drug Administration announced Tuesday that Pharmacal voluntarily recalled its MG217 eczema cream after testing detected Staphylococcus aureus contamination.
Federal officials say exposure to the bacteria may lead to infections ranging from localized skin problems to severe or life-threatening medical complications. People with weakened immune systems or damaged skin face the highest risk.
“Use of the product could result in a range of infections from localized to severe or life-threatening adverse events,” the FDA said in its recall notice.
Pharmacal reported no confirmed adverse events linked to the product as of the recall announcement. The company is notifying distributors by email and coordinating the return of affected products.
The recalled ointment is marketed as a hypoallergenic, full-body moisturizer designed to relieve itching, irritation, dryness, and redness associated with eczema and other skin conditions. The company advertises it as safe for children and babies.
Affected products were sold nationwide through wholesale and retail outlets and online marketplaces, including Amazon.
Company Identifies Specific Product Details For Recall
The recall applies to MG217 Eczema Cream Multi-symptom Treatment Cream & Skin Protectant Eczema Cream packaged in six-ounce tubes.
Officials identified the affected units as product code 5106, UPC 012277051067, lot number 1024088, with an expiration date of November 2026.
Consumers are urged to check the packaging carefully to determine whether they purchased the recalled item.
Pharmacal advises customers to stop using the cream immediately and safely discard it. Customers seeking information about returns or reimbursement may contact the company at 800-558-6614 or by email during weekday business hours.
The FDA encourages anyone experiencing side effects or product quality concerns to report incidents through its MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting Program.
Health officials also advise consumers to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms develop after using the product.
Health Officials Explain Risks Linked To Staph Bacteria
Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as staph, is a bacterium frequently found on human skin or in the nose. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates roughly 30 percent of people carry the organism without illness.
Early symptoms of infection often resemble pimples, boils, or other skin irritations. While many exposures remain harmless, the bacteria can cause serious disease when they enter the bloodstream or internal tissues.
According to federal health officials, severe infections may include pneumonia, bloodstream infections, bone and joint infections, or life-threatening conditions such as sepsis and septic shock. Individuals recovering from surgery or living with chronic illnesses such as diabetes or cancer face an elevated risk.
The FDA says the recall is part of ongoing efforts to prevent contaminated products from reaching consumers and to reduce potential public health threats.
Consumers are encouraged to monitor recall notices and follow disposal instructions to minimize exposure risks.
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