A recalled brand of eyedrops has been linked to dozens of serious infections, including one fatal case.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 68 infected patients have been identified across 16 states.
These infections have been traced back to Global Pharma’s Artificial Tears lubricant eye drops, the CDC reports.
The product, distributed by EzriCare and Delsam Pharma, was first recalled in February.
The CDC states that the patients were infected by a rare strain of drug-resistant bacteria, previously unreported in the United States.
Symptoms of the infection include eye discharge, eye pain or discomfort, increased light sensitivity, and blurry vision.
The CDC notes that eight patients lost their vision, four required surgical removal of their eyeballs, and one patient died.
Anyone who has used EzriCare or Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears and experiences signs of an infection should seek medical attention immediately.
