The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently investigating a nationwide outbreak of carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) linked to using EzriCare® Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma® eye drops. The manufacturer has recalled their products due to ‘potential microbial contamination.’
CDC Alert regarding Ezricare and Delsam Artificial Tears
The CDC has alerted doctors everywhere to the emergence of CRPA, a bacteria that is immune to many antibiotics and can cause severe illnesses in humans. Testing of opened EzriCare bottles detected the presence of the infection, leading the CDC to recommend a halt to using the product until the investigation and laboratory analyses are completed.
The outbreak has resulted in 68 adverse events, including eye infections, permanent vision loss, surgical removal of the eyes, and death, across 16 states according to the FDA. The strain of bacteria, Verona Integron-mediated Metallo-?-lactamase (VIM) and Guiana-Extended Spectrum-?-Lactamase (GES)-producing CRPA, is so rare the CDC has never seen it in the U.S. before. Lawsuits related to EzriCare use are already being filed as of February 10, 2023.
FDA Recommends Artificial Tears Recall
Global Pharma Healthcare’s voluntary recall of EzriCare Artificial Tears and Delsam Pharma eye drops was made at the FDA’s recommendation. The preservative-free, multi-dose bottles are the suspected cause of the outbreak due to the higher risk of bacterial overgrowth after opening. The recalled products have NDCs 79503-0101-15 and 72570-121-15, with UPCs 3 79503 10115 7 and 72570-0121-15 respectively. The FDA later expanded the recall to include Delsam Pharma Artificial Eye Ointment as well.
If you or a loved one used either Delsam Pharma or EzriCare Artificial Tears and suffered injuries, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. State laws, known as statutes of limitations, limit the amount of time you have to take action.
CRPA Infections caused by Artificial Tears
Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) is a type of bacterial infection resistant to antibiotics commonly used as a last resort. It is usually found in the environment, including soil and water, and can cause infections in the blood, lungs, or other body parts. When CRPA is in the eyes, it can cause conjunctivitis, keratitis, and endophthalmitis, with symptoms like redness, pain, blurred vision, eye discharge, and light sensitivity. Treatment options include intravenous antibiotics, combination therapy, surgery, and drainage of infected tissue.
Next Steps for Injured Consumers
Consumers who were injured by these recalled product may pursue a legal claim for damages. The first step is to contact a qualified attorney to discuss their legal rights and options.
Consumers who were injured by Artificial Tears may also be able to join a class action lawsuit. In a class action lawsuit, multiple people join together to pursue one claim. This may allow them to share the costs of litigation and increase the chances of success.
If consumers have any questions about the product recall or their legal rights, they should contact a qualified attorney for advice.