The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Tuesday the nationwide recall of a batch of SinuCleanse nasal wash after it was found to be contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, a potentially dangerous bacteria.
Ascent Consumer Products Inc. initiated the voluntary recall of a specific lot of the SinuCleanse Soft Tip Squeeze Bottle Nasal Wash System after tests confirmed the presence of the bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus is known to cause staph infections, which can be severe and even life-threatening.
The company is advising all customers to immediately discontinue use of the affected product.
Which Nasal Wash Was Recalled?
The recall pertains to a single lot of the SinuCleanse nasal wash with the following details:
- Product Name: SinuCleanse Soft Tip Squeeze Bottle Nasal Wash System
- Lot Number: 024122661A1
- Expiration Date: December 31, 2027
This lot was distributed nationwide in January to various retail and online stores, including Walmart and Amazon. The product is sold in a boxed carton containing a squeeze bottle and 30 saline packets.
The nasal wash was designed to help relieve congestion caused by sinus infections, colds, flu, or allergies by flushing out mucus, pollen, dust, and other debris from the nasal passages.
Why Was the Nasal Wash Recalled?
The recall was triggered after a routine test revealed contamination with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), a common bacterium responsible for causing staph infections.
Although around 30% of people carry S. aureus in their noses or on their skin without issue, if the bacteria enters the body, it can lead to serious health problems. In particular, the bacteria can cause severe infections in individuals with inflamed or injured nasal passages, especially those who use nasal washes.
The FDA highlighted that these infections could result in severe conditions such as:
- Endocarditis (infection of the heart’s inner lining)
- Bone and joint infections
- Splenic abscesses or meningitis
- Bacterial sinusitis, which can lead to eye tissue infections, vision problems, or cranial nerve damage
As of now, no adverse health incidents have been reported in connection with the recalled nasal wash. The company urges all customers who have purchased the affected lot to cease use immediately.
