Infection Risk: Avoid These Alcohol-Free Wipes After Death & Contamination Fears
- Health officials are warning the public to discontinue use of certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes, following an outbreak of infection linked to these products that has spanned several years...
- The outbreak, identified in the UK beginning in January 2018 and continuing through February 3, 2026, involves 59 confirmed cases of Burkholderia stabilis, a bacteria that can cause...
- Burkholderia stabilis is naturally found in the environment – in soil and water – and rarely causes illness in people with healthy immune systems.
Health officials are warning the public to discontinue use of certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes, following an outbreak of infection linked to these products that has spanned several years and, tragically, resulted in one death. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued the alert, urging consumers to check their first aid kits and homes for potentially contaminated wipes.
The outbreak, identified in the UK beginning in January 2018 and continuing through , involves 59 confirmed cases of Burkholderia stabilis, a bacteria that can cause serious infections. While typically not a threat to healthy individuals, this bacterium poses a risk to those with compromised immune systems, individuals with conditions like cystic fibrosis, and patients receiving intravenous treatments at home. The recent detection of ongoing cases, including severe infections requiring hospitalization, underscores the continued public health concern.
Understanding the Risk
Burkholderia stabilis is naturally found in the environment – in soil and water – and rarely causes illness in people with healthy immune systems. However, when introduced to broken skin, particularly through non-sterile products, it can lead to infection. The current outbreak is specifically linked to non-sterile alcohol-free wipes used on wounds or broken skin. The bacteria is not spread person-to-person.
Dr. James Elston, Consultant in Epidemiology and Public Health at UKHSA, emphasized the importance of using sterile wipes for wound care. “Non-sterile alcohol-free wipes, of any type or brand, should not be used for the treatment of injuries, wounds, or broken skin; and they should never be used to clean intravenous lines,” he stated. Dr. Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, added, “If you have any wipes at home or work, double check they are labelled ‘sterile’ before using on broken skin.”
Affected Products and What to Do
Investigations in 2025 identified several specific brands of wipes contaminated with Burkholderia stabilis. Consumers are advised to immediately stop using and dispose of the following products in standard household waste:
- ValueAid Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes
- Microsafe Moist Wipe Alcohol Free
- Steroplast Sterowipe Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes
- Reliwipe Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes (testing revealed contamination with a Burkholderia strain not related to the outbreak cases)
While these products have been withdrawn from sale, it’s possible some remain in circulation. The UKHSA and MHRA are urging individuals to proactively check their first aid kits and homes for these specific brands.
Who is Most Vulnerable?
The risk of infection from Burkholderia stabilis is highest in certain populations. These include:
- Individuals with compromised immune systems: Conditions or treatments that weaken the immune system increase susceptibility to infection.
- Patients with cystic fibrosis: This genetic condition affects the lungs and digestive system, making individuals more vulnerable to bacterial infections.
- Patients receiving intravenous (IV) therapy at home: IV lines provide a direct pathway for bacteria to enter the bloodstream if proper sterile technique is not followed.
Healthcare professionals are reminded to reinforce guidance on proper wound care and intravenous line maintenance, particularly for patients in the community. The UKHSA emphasizes that for patients with intravascular devices, local guidance should align with National Evidence-Based Guidelines for Preventing Healthcare-Associated Infections. Community healthcare providers should advise patients to use only sterile wipes on broken skin and to follow clinical team instructions regarding wound care.
Ongoing Monitoring and Public Health Response
The UKHSA continues to monitor the situation and investigate new cases of Burkholderia stabilis infection. The initial outbreak was identified in 2018, and while the number of new cases has decreased, the recent death highlights the ongoing risk. The patient safety alert issued in and subsequent product recalls demonstrate the commitment of health authorities to protecting public health.
This situation serves as a critical reminder of the importance of using sterile products for wound care and adhering to proper hygiene practices, especially for vulnerable individuals. Consumers should carefully check the labeling of wipes before use and prioritize products clearly marked as ‘sterile’ when treating injuries or broken skin.