UKHSA Issues Critical Alert Over Burkholderia Stabilis Infection Outbreak
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a stark warning to the public to remain vigilant for signs of infection amid an ongoing outbreak of Burkholderia stabilis. This bacterial infection has been linked to the use of specific non-sterile alcohol-free wipe products, with health authorities confirming 59 cases across the United Kingdom spanning from January 2018 to February 2026.
Outbreak Details and Public Health Implications
According to the latest UKHSA update, this outbreak has resulted in one confirmed fatality, with a small number of cases continuing to be detected. Some infections have been serious enough to require hospital treatment, highlighting the potential severity of this public health concern. The agency emphasized that while the overall risk to the general population remains very low, vulnerable individuals face heightened dangers.
Dr James Elston, Consultant in Epidemiology and Public Health at UKHSA, stated: "We are reminding the public not to use, and to dispose of, certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes which have been linked to an outbreak of Burkholderia stabilis. The overall risk to the public remains very low, and affected products have been withdrawn from sale. However, we are continuing to see a small number of cases in vulnerable patients, and we are now aware of one associated death."
Identifying Infection Symptoms and Risk Factors
The UKHSA has outlined specific symptoms that individuals should monitor, which may vary depending on the infection's location and severity. For wounds infected with Burkholderia stabilis, warning signs include:
- Redness and swelling around the affected area
- Heightened pain and localized heat
- Pus leakage from the wound
For infections related to intravenous lines, additional indicators may include:
- Redness, swelling or discomfort at the insertion point
- Fever and chills
- In severe cases, potential progression to bloodstream infection (sepsis)
Sepsis presents numerous potential symptoms including confusion, rash development, and breathing difficulties. The UKHSA advises that anyone with concerns about a wound that fails to heal properly or who develops a fever after sustaining an injury should "contact NHS 111 immediately." Those with intravenous lines who have any concerns should promptly contact their care team.
Vulnerable Populations and Bacterial Characteristics
Burkholderia stabilis is a bacterium that occurs naturally within the environment and rarely causes infection in otherwise healthy individuals. However, certain populations face significantly heightened risk:
- Individuals with compromised immune systems
- Those with additional risk factors including cystic fibrosis
- Patients managing intravenous lines at home
Contaminated Products and Safety Recommendations
During outbreak investigations in 2025, four non-sterile alcohol-free wipes were identified as contaminated with Burkholderia. These products should "not be used under any circumstances":
- 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)
The UKHSA and Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency have jointly emphasized that non-sterile alcohol-free wipes, regardless of make or manufacturer, must never be used for first aid applications, on compromised or broken skin, and should absolutely not be deployed for cleaning intravenous lines.
Product Recall and Public Action Required
In July 2025, the MHRA issued alerts to suppliers of these products, resulting in their withdrawal from sale. However, some items may still remain in first aid kits and private residences. Members of the public are strongly urged to:
- Inspect their properties, including first aid supplies, for these wipes
- Immediately stop using any of the implicated products
- Dispose of them with ordinary household waste
Dr Elston further explained: "UKHSA uncovered the link to this outbreak through testing of wipes used by those affected and worked quickly to notify health professionals through a patient safety alert in June 2025. We have provided a further update to reinforce infection prevention and control guidance. When treating injuries or cleaning intravenous lines, it is important to follow NHS advice."
The agency continues to monitor the situation closely while reinforcing proper infection prevention protocols to protect vulnerable populations from this ongoing public health concern.
