Health officials in the UK have warned the public to check their homes and first aid kits after four brands of wet wipes were linked to a dangerous bacterial outbreak. The wipes were found to be contaminated with Burkholderia stabilis, a microorganism that can cause serious infections and even sepsis. Authorities say 59 confirmed infections and six deaths in the UK since 2018 have been connected to the contaminated products, which were withdrawn from sale in July 2025.
The affected wipes include ValueAid Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes, Microsafe Moist Wipe Alcohol Free, Reliwipe Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes, and Steroplast Sterowipe Alcohol Free Cleansing Wipes. Health experts say people most at risk include those with weakened immune systems, IV lines, cystic fibrosis, or those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplants. Officials advise immediately discarding these wipes and avoiding using non-sterile wipes on broken skin or medical devices to reduce the risk of infection.