This article is more than 1 year old
UKHSA and MHRA advise to stop using non-sterile, alcohol-free wipes
While there have been no cases among individuals with CF, certain wipes were found to be contaminated with Burkholderia Stabilis, which can be a particular risk to people with cystic fibrosis.
Because of the risk of infection, UKHSA recommend:
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Throwing away: ValueAid Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes, Microsafe Moist Wipe Alcohol Free and Steroplast Sterowipe Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes
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Only using sterile wipes when cleaning medical lines, devices, and broken skin - checking the packaging around wipes marked as ‘sterile’ is not damaged and that products are in date.
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Only using wipes on intravenous lines you are using at home if you have been advised to by your medical team.
If you have used alcohol-free wipes, and have symptoms of infection, please speak to a healthcare professional, or your CF team.
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, said: “We consider wipes which are intended for a medical purpose to be medicines. These products do not have a medicines authorisation, and we are taking appropriate action to ensure compliance with the requirements of the applicable legislation governed by MHRA.
“If you have these wipes at home or in a first aid kit, please check the label and only use wipes marked as ‘sterile’ on broken skin. Healthcare professionals are advised to follow instructions and information provided in the national patient safety alert from UKHSA.
“Anyone who has used alcohol-free wipes and has concerns about potential infection is advised to speak with a healthcare professional.”
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