Urgent baby wipe recall over ‘life-threatening infection’ risk
Target has recalled its Up and Up baby wipes in the US after the FDA issued a public health alert over bacterial contamination that could cause serious and potentially life-threatening infections in babies and young children
Male in blue medical gloves uses a stethoscope as he listens closely to a baby(Image: Svetlana Repnitskaya via Getty Images)
Parents are being warned to inspect their homes immediately after a widely-used baby wipes brand was withdrawn over concerns they could cause severe and potentially fatal infections.
Retail behemoth Target has voluntarily removed several of its Up and Up baby wipe products from shelves after tests showed traces of bacteria that may present a serious health threat, especially to newborns, babies and toddlers.
The withdrawal affects both Up and Up Fragrance-Free Baby Wipes and Up and Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes, which were available in shops across the US and via online platforms.
According to a statement issued by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on 5th June, the products were removed from sale following customer complaints and subsequent testing that identified bacterial contamination.
Worried customers reported various symptoms including skin irritation, eye irritation and infections after using the wipes. Some users also spotted discolouration within the products themselves.
The FDA has cautioned that wipes contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioi could lead to serious illness.
“Use of products contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioi may result in serious and life-threatening infections,” the agency stated. The alert is especially concerning given that the wipes are chiefly used on babies and young children, whose immune systems are still developing. Health authorities have cautioned of an increased risk for those with compromised immunity, including infants, as infections could potentially breach the bloodstream and cause severe conditions such as sepsis or pneumonia.
Both Target and manufacturer Sapro Temizlik Urunleri have received complaints from customers reporting negative reactions after using the products. These incidents are presently under investigation.
In a statement, the FDA said: “These reports remain under investigation. Target is coordinating with the manufacturer and continues to investigate this matter.”
Customers who have bought the recalled wipes are being urged to stop using them immediately and return them to any Target store for a full refund.
Those with enquiries are advised to contact Target Guest Relations on 1-800-440-0680.
Recalled Up & Up baby wipes
- Up & Up Fragrance-Free Baby Wipes
- 20-count pack – UPC: 085239265956
- 72-count pack – UPC: 085239265949
- 216-count pack – UPC: 085239265963
- 800-count pack – UPC: 085239266137
- 1200-count pack – UPC: 085239266090
- Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes
- 72-count pack – UPC: 085239265970
- 216-count pack – UPC: 085239265994
- 800-count pack – UPC: 085239265987
Any parents who own the affected products are strongly advised to discontinue using them immediately and seek medical attention should their child display signs of irritation or infection following use.
