UK Health Authorities Issue Urgent Warning Over Contaminated Wipes
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) have issued a critical public health warning regarding non-sterile alcohol-free wipes. These products should not be used on broken or damaged skin due to a serious infection risk that has already resulted in one fatality. The agencies have identified four specific brands that must be avoided and disposed of immediately.
Outbreak Details and Infection Statistics
Health officials have confirmed 59 cases of Burkholderia stabilis infection directly associated with certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipe products. This bacterial infection can cause severe health complications, particularly in vulnerable individuals. The outbreak was first identified in the UK from January 2018 through February 3, 2026, with cases continuing to be detected. Several serious infections have required hospital treatment, and tragically, one death has been attributed to Burkholderia stabilis infection.
Understanding the Bacterial Threat
Burkholderia stabilis is naturally found in environmental settings and typically poses minimal risk to healthy individuals. Importantly, the bacteria is not transmitted between people. However, certain population groups face significantly higher risks, including immunocompromised individuals, those with underlying conditions such as cystic fibrosis, and patients managing intravenous lines at home. For these vulnerable groups, exposure to contaminated wipes can lead to serious infection development.
Official Guidance and Product Identification
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, emphasized: "If you have any wipes at home or work, double check they are labelled 'sterile' before using on broken skin." Dr James Elston, Consultant in Epidemiology and Public Health at UKHSA, added: "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."
During outbreak investigations conducted in 2025, the following products were found to be contaminated with Burkholderia:
- 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)
Regulatory Response and Ongoing Concerns
UKHSA identified the outbreak link through comprehensive testing of wipes used by affected individuals. The agency moved swiftly to notify healthcare professionals through a patient safety alert issued in June 2025. Subsequently, the MHRA issued formal notices to sellers of specific contaminated products in July 2025, resulting in their withdrawal from commercial sale. Despite these regulatory actions, health authorities warn that some of these products may still remain in first aid kits and household supplies across the country.
Health officials strongly urge the public to immediately stop using these wipes and dispose of them properly in standard household waste. This precautionary measure is essential to prevent further infections and protect vulnerable individuals from potential exposure to contaminated products.
