Kotex Tampoon Recall Linked To Dangerous Infection

Kimberly-Clark recently announced a limited recall of Kotex Natural Balance* Security Unscented Tampons because they have the potential to be contaminated.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) news release states that the tampons affected by the recall were manufactured with a raw material contaminated with a bacterium — Enterobacter sakazaii — which can lead to serious health risks including urinary tract infections (UTI), vaginal infections and infections that can be life-threatening. Women with a pre-existing illness such as cancer or any other immune-compromised condition are most at risk.

Enterobacter sakazakii, also referred to as E. sakazakii, has been implicated in a severe form of neonatal meningitis. Studies have failed to identify an environmental source for the organism although dried infant formula has been associated with outbreaks in the past.

The recall involves 18-count and 36-count packages of Kotex Natural Balance* Security ® Unscented Tampons Regular Absorbency that were distributed between October 29, 2011 and November 2, 2011 to Walmart, Fry’s and Smith’s stores in eight states.

Product SKU numbers are 15063 and 15068 are the last five numbers of the product’s barcode and can be found on the bottom of the package.

Women are urged to make sure they don’t have any of the affected tampons. If you or someone you know has experienced any unusual discharge, fever, rash, headache or other health issue you feel may have been caused by this recall they should contact their medical doctor immediately.

It’s important to note that to date, no reports of adverse health reactions have been reported to the company. No other Kotex brands are included in this recall.

For additional information, contact Kimberly-Clark’s consumer office at 1-800-335-6839.