The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall of a nasal rinse sold in several stores across the country, which may be contaminated with bacteria. If you use this type of product, here’s what you need to know so you can take the necessary precautions.
Which nasal rinse is being recalled?
According to the agency, the product in question is the SinuCleanse Soft Tip Squeeze Bottle Nasal Wash System, manufactured by Ascent Consumer Products Inc. The product is packaged in a cardboard box and contains a squeeze bottle and 30 saline solution packets. It also has the lot number 024122611A1 and an expiration date of December 31, 2027.
Why is the SinuCleanse Soft Tip Squeeze Bottle Nasal Wash being recalled?
The FDA warned that this product may be contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which causes staph infections that can range from mild conditions to potentially fatal ones.
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Where was the staph-contaminated nasal rinse sold?
According to Ascent Consumer Products Inc., based in Melville, New York, the affected product was distributed nationwide in January 2025 through retail stores and online.
What should I do if I purchased the staph-contaminated nasal rinse?
Although no infections have been reported by consumers, the FDA has urged those who purchased this product to dispose of it and not to use it. If you have used it, the FDA recommends seeing a doctor immediately to rule out a staph infection or begin treatment if an infection is confirmed.
Customers can also contact the manufacturer via email at [email protected] for any questions or further information.
What is Staphylococcus?
Infections caused by staphylococci are triggered by the Staphylococcus bacteria. This germ is commonly found on the skin or in the nose of healthy individuals. In most cases, these bacteria cause no issues or only cause mild skin infections that heal in a few days.
However, staph infections can become serious and potentially fatal if the bacteria penetrate the body, as they could affect the bloodstream, joints, bones, lungs, and even the heart.
Symptoms of Staphylococcus Infection
Staph infections range from mild skin problems to life-threatening conditions. The signs and symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the infection, but some are more common. If you experience any of these, it’s recommended that you see a doctor immediately.
The main symptoms of staph infections include:
- Skin infections
- Food poisoning
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Low blood pressure
- Bacteremia
- Toxic shock syndrome
- High fever
- Confusion
- Muscle pain
- Stomach pain
- Septic arthritis
- Joint swelling
How to prevent a staph infection?
You can reduce the risk of a staph infection by taking the following preventive measures:
- Wash your hands with soap and water before, during, and after preparing food; after handling raw meat; before eating; after using the bathroom; and after touching any animal.
- If you cannot wash your hands, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your wounds with a dry, sterile bandage until they heal.
- Change your tampon frequently.
- Do not share personal items such as towels, sheets, razors, clothing, and sports equipment.
- Wash your clothes and bed linens regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria.
- Cook food thoroughly before consuming it.
