UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an alert regarding Burkholderia cenocepacia outbreak with suspected association with carbomer lubricating eye gel.
Burkholderia cepacian are bacteria usually found naturally in the environment but can cause serious harm to patients with weakened immune system or chronic lung diseases, particularly cystic fibrosis. Investigation and testing are still ongoing, and these eye gels are being recalled as a precaution.
UKHSA considers the risk to the general public from Burkholderia cenocepacia to be very low, but some patient groups are at higher risk of adverse effects.
As a precautionary measure until further information is available, UKHSA has recommended that all carbomer eye gels are avoided where possible in the following groups:
Patients are advised to stop using any of the affected products (please see below) and to return these to the place of sale / supply. For further information, contact Moorfields Pharmacy Medicines Information on 0207 566 2369.
24 November 2023