What infection has been linked to certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes in the UK?

The infection linked to certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes in the UK is Burkholderia stabilis.

How many cases of Burkholderia stabilis infection have been confirmed in the UK outbreak?

There have been 59 confirmed instances of Burkholderia stabilis infection identified in the UK outbreak.

Which products should the public avoid due to the Burkholderia stabilis outbreak?

The public should avoid four specific non-sterile alcohol-free wipe products identified by the UKHSA and MHRA.

Home / Health / UK Issues Urgent Warning: Avoid Certain Wipes Now

UK Issues Urgent Warning: Avoid Certain Wipes Now

5 Feb

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Summary

One fatality linked to Burkholderia stabilis infection.
59 confirmed cases of infection between January 2018 and February 2026.
Non-sterile alcohol-free wipes pose risks to vulnerable individuals.

UK Issues Urgent Warning: Avoid Certain Wipes Now

Health experts in the UK have issued a stern warning concerning certain non-sterile alcohol-free wipes. An outbreak of Burkholderia stabilis infection has been linked to these products, resulting in 59 confirmed cases between January 2018 and February 2026. Tragically, one fatality has been associated with this infection.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) identified four specific non-sterile alcohol-free wipe products that should not be used. While the risk to the general public remains very low, individuals who are immunocompromised, have cystic fibrosis, or use home intravenous lines face an increased risk.

These affected products were withdrawn from sale in July. However, the UKHSA advises the public to check homes and first aid kits for these wipes and dispose of them immediately. Healthcare professionals were alerted in June 2025, with advice reinforced on February 5, 2026, emphasizing that non-sterile wipes should not be used on broken skin or for cleaning medical equipment.