A batch of widely used over-the-counter cold and flu medicines is being urgently recalled after the discovery of possible animal contamination that could lead to Salmonella contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ordered the recall after investigators documented “insanitary conditions” at the Gold Star Distribution facility, including rodent droppings, urine, bird feces and other evidence of pest infestation in areas where medicines and other goods were stored. Health officials have warned consumers to stop using the affected products immediately and to check packaging details to determine whether their medicine is part of the recall.
The potential contamination was identified during routine quality testing, prompting manufacturers to coordinate with regulatory agencies to remove the affected batches from store shelves. Salmonella infection can cause serious illness, especially in young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include fever, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Recalled Cold And Flu Products
Cold and flu products impacted by the recall include:
- Liquid DayQuil 12/8oz
- DayQuil Cold & Flu 32CT/2PK
- Children’s NyQuil Cold & Flu Berry 8oz 12ct
- Liquid NyQuil Cherry 12/8oz
- NyQuil Cold & Flu 32CT/2PK
- Tylenol 500 MG. 2’S 50CT
- Tylenol Cold & Flu 25CT/2S
- Tylenol Cold & Flu Severe 2PK *50CT
- Tylenol PM 50CT
- Tylenol Sinus Severe 2PK *50CT
- Excedrin 2’S DISP.- 30
- Motrin IB 50CT
- Alka Seltzer Plus Cold 2/36 box
- Alka-Seltzer Original 2/58CT BX
- Benadryl 25’S 2PK BOX
- Advil Ibuprofen Tablets 50CT
- Advil PM 2PK / 50CT
So far, no illnesses have been reported in connection with the recall, but authorities are urging caution as investigations continue. Consumers who purchased the recalled medicines are advised to safely dispose of them and contact the manufacturer or their pharmacy for further guidance.
“Products held under insanitary conditions may become contaminated… Exposure to contaminated products can pose serious health risks to consumers, including the potential for bacterial contamination, which may result in illness or infection, including Salmonella,” Gold Star stated in a release.
For a full list of affected products, consumers are encouraged to visit the FDA website.
