Burkholderia stabilis infections associated with contamination of non-sterile alcohol-free skin cleansing wipes, United Kingdom, 2018 to 2026

Abstract

A Burkholderia stabilis (ST480) outbreak associated with skin cleansing wipes has comprised 59 confirmed cases in the United Kingdom 2018–2026. Cases included patients with co-morbidities and clinically relevant infections. There was one associated death. Burkholderia stabilis was recovered from non-sterile alcohol-free cleansing wipes which did not have the relevant medicines authorisation. Products were suspended from sale though not recalled, and the outbreak continued following public health intervention. We highlight risks of potential relevance to other countries. Medical and personal care product contamination with Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) and associated outbreaks have been reported internationally, and in the United Kingdom (UK) [1-6]. Burkholderia stabilis is a member of the Bcc, intrinsically resistant to several antibiotics and can cause considerable morbidity and mortality in people with chronic diseases such as cystic fibrosis (CF) [7]. Here we describe an ongoing outbreak of B. stabilis associated with non-sterile alcohol-free cleansing wipes, resulting in clinical infections and one death. We highlight implications and potential risks relevant to international partners.