The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about a series of eye drops sold at Walmart and other stores across the country. The eyedrops have been linked to serious bacterial infections, with the CDC warning that the use of the eyedrops could lead to blindness.
The CDC has identified the eyedrops as “Sterile Ophthalmic Solution” and “Advanced Sterile Ophthalmic Solution”, both of which have been sold at Walmart, Walgreens, and CVS stores. The eyedrops have been linked to a number of bacterial infections, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Serratia marcescens.
The CDC is advising anyone who has purchased or used the eyedrops to stop using them and to contact their healthcare provider if they have any signs or symptoms of infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge. The agency is also recommending that consumers contact their local health department for further information about the eyedrops.
The CDC is working with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate the source of the infections and to take any necessary steps to ensure the safety of consumers. In the meantime, the agency is recommending that consumers take extra care when purchasing and using eye products.