Deep Heat Extra Strength 100g cream is being urgently recalled in Australia, with shoppers warned not to use two affected batches due to contamination.
The recall notice states that batches V772 and V773 may contain concerningly high levels of a rare bacterium called Pluralibacter gergoviae. Tests of the cream revealed it had 'higher than acceptable' amounts of bacteria.
Risk of serious infections
Pluralibacter gergoviae can cause opportunistic infections - an illness that takes advantage of a body's lowered ability to fight disease - in those who have weak immune systems. The TGA added that using contaminated products like the two Deep Heat batches could potentially result in serious infections for those with weakened immune systems, as well as those with broken skin.
What shoppers should do
Anyone with Deep Heat tubes carrying the V772 and V773 batch numbers is advised to ditch them right away. The recall notice from Mentholatum Australasia Pty Ltd says: "If you have purchased any affected batches of the product, do not use it."
The affected batch codes V772 and V773 have a set expiry date of June 2029. Those who purchased the product were urged to return it to the place of purchase or contact Mentholatum Australasia for further assistance.
