OTTAWA – Health Canada has issued a warning about a foaming hand soap commonly used in homes and in office, school and hospital hand-washing stations because it is contaminated and poses a serious health risk to anyone with a compromised immune system.
The soap – Antimicrobial Foaming Hand Soap (Triclosan 0.3%) – has been voluntarily recalled by its manufacturer, Avmor Ltd.
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Tests by Health Canada detected the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Health Canada says those at risk include people with cystic fibrosis, HIV/AIDS, burns, cancer, diabetes and severe lung disease.
The bacteria can enter the body through cuts, lesions or other open sores. No illnesses have been reported, Health Canada says.
The agency recommends people not use the hand soap or any other foaming antimicrobial soap that can’t be identified by the dispenser and report any reactions that might be associated with its use to Health Canada.
Schools, offices, hospitals and consumers can contact the company for more information at 1-450-629-8074, ext. 2360.
For more information, visit the media advisories section of Health Canada’s website at www.hc-sc.gc.ca.
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