It has recently been discovered that popular moisturizer brand Jergens and their line of Ultra Healing Moisturizer has been recalled. The reason for the recall is that it may contain harmful bacteria that can cause infection in people with compromised immune systems. It was discovered that some of their 3 oz and 10 oz packages of the moisturizer might be contaminated with the bacteria Pluralibacter gergoviae.
This type of bacteria is considered relatively harmless to anyone with a normal immune system or who is of average health; however, based on numerous reports and findings, the bacteria are capable of causing severe illness and infections in those with autoimmune deficiencies or compromised immune systems. For this reason, the manufacturer has been forced to recall a batch of products that possibly contain the bacteria.
Who is Susceptible? Should You Be Concerned?
The majority of the reported cases in healthy individuals who came in contact with the bacteria only resulted in minor skin irritation and swelling symptoms. However, for people with autoimmune deficiency or those who have allergies to particular strains of bacteria, symptoms can be much worse.
This type of bacteria, when left untreated, is known to be antibiotic-resistant. Exposure can lead to severe illness for those who are compromised or have an allergy to the bacteria. If you experience out-of-the-ordinary symptoms, you are advised to seek medical help right away.
Doctors and physicians suggest that anyone immunocompromised and those with open wounds should be mindful of the product recall. They recommend checking the batch numbers to ensure they are not listed as possibly contaminated.
Which Products Have Been Contaminated?
The products under recall were manufactured between October 1, 2021, and October 18, 2021. A full list of batch numbers includes:
Lot codes on the affected 3 oz size are:
- ZU712851
- ZU712861
- ZU712871
- ZU712881
- ZU712911
- ZU722851
- ZU722881
Lot codes on the affected 10 oz size are:
- ZU722741
- ZU722771
- ZU722781
- ZU732781
- ZU732791
- ZU732801
- ZU732811
- ZU732821
What Should You Do If You Experience Symptoms?
If you experience symptoms, such as a rash or sickness, due to the Jergens Ultra Healing Moisturizer, discontinue the use of the product immediately and consult your doctor. It is recommended that you contact the FDA to notify them of your reaction and then contact the distributor of the product to get a replacement or receive a full refund.
