The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) have issued an urgent warning against using certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes after an outbreak of Burkholderia stabilis bacteria led to one death and 59 confirmed infections.
The outbreak, identified in January 2018 and ongoing as of February 2026, has caused serious infections requiring hospital treatment. The bacteria poses a particular risk to immunocompromised individuals, those with cystic fibrosis, and patients with intravenous lines at home.
Four specific brands have been named and should be disposed of immediately in household waste. Health chiefs stress that non-sterile alcohol-free wipes should never be used on broken skin or for cleaning intravenous lines.
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, advised: “If you have any wipes at home or work, double check they are labelled ‘sterile’ before using on broken skin.” Dr James Elston of UKHSA added that such wipes should not be used for treating injuries or wounds.
The MHRA issued notices to sellers in July 2025, leading to product withdrawals, but some wipes may remain in first aid kits. The public is urged to stop using them immediately.
