The makers of an over-the-counter nasal spray sold at CVS stores in Queens and other parts of the country have recalled the medication due to possible microbial contamination.
Product Quest Manufacturers issued on Aug. 7 a voluntary recall of CVS Health 12-Hour Sinus Relief Nasal Mist. The spray was found to contain pseudomonas aeruginosa, a microbacteria that could put individuals with compromised immune systems at risk of a potentially life-threatening infection.
According to Product Quest, the company has not yet received “any reports of adverse events related to this recall.”
“Repetitive use of a nasal spray containing a gram-negative pathogen can potentially lead to colonization and subsequent infection,” as noted in a Product Quest press release, “which can be life-threatening in certain patient populations, such as those with cystic fibrosis or immuno-compromised.”
Symptoms of pseudomonas aeruginosa infection are similar to that of the common cold or flu; they include fever and chills; body aches; light-headedness; rapid pulse and breathing; nausea and vomiting; diarrhea; and decreased urination. Consult a physician if you experience any or a combination of these symptoms.
The Centers for Disease Control indicated that the infection can be treated with standard antibiotics, although strains found in hospitals and health care facilities have been found to be more antibiotic-resistant.
The recalled CVS Health 12-Hour Sinus Relief Nasal Mist has an expiration date of September 2019, with a UPC code 50428432365. The lot number (173089J) and expiration date of 9/19 is coded on the side panel of the carton.
Product Quest advises anyone who purchased the recalled nasal mist to stop using the product and either return it to the place of purchase or discard it.
For questions about the recall, call Product Quest Manufacturing at 386-239-8787 on Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
