Cold and flu product recalled due to bacteria that could cause life-threatening infection

It’s peak cold and flu season, but before you grab that nasal wash to clear up your stuffy nose, you might want to take a closer look at the label.Ascent Consumer Products Inc.is voluntarily recalling a single lot of its popular SinuCleanse Soft Tip Squeeze Bottle Nasal Wash System after tests confirmed the presence of staphylococcus aureus, a dangerous bacteria.The product is commonly used to rinse nasal passages and temporarily alleviate symptoms of sinusitis, cold, flu or allergies. The affected batch — with the lot number 024122661A1, expiring Dec.

31, 2027 — was distributed nationwide in January through stores and online retailers.It includes a squeeze bottle and 30 saline packets. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that using the contaminated nasal wash could lead to blood infections, particularly in individuals with nasal injuries or irritation. The bacteria could cause other serious and potentially life-threatening conditions, including heart infections, splenic abscesses and meningitis.

It could also lead to bacterial sinusitis, which could result in eye tissue infections, vision problems and even cranial nerve damage. No issues have been reported.Meanwhile, Ascent Consumer Products has informed distributors and retailers to stop selling the affected batch. “Consumers who have this product should discontinue use immediately and return it to the place of purchase or discard it,” the FDA advised in a Tuesday alert.

Customers who experience an adverse reaction can report it online.  Subscribe to our weekly Post Care newsletter! Please provide a valid email address.By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Never miss a story.The Post reached out to Ascent Consumer Products for comment.For many, nasal irrigation or sinus rinsing has become a go-to remedy when congestion strikes.The technique involves moving saline solution thr...