CDC HAN Health Advisory: Pseudomonas Outbreak Linked to Artificial Tears

The CDC issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory about infections with an extensively drug-resistant strain of Verona Integron-mediated Metallo-β-lactamase (VIM) and Guiana-Extended Spectrum-β-Lactamase (GES)-producing carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (VIM-GES-CRPA) in 12 states. The majority of patients reported using EzriCare Artificial Tears, a preservative-free, over-the-counter product packaged in multidose bottles. As a result, the FDA issued a warning to consumers and healthcare practitioners to immediately stop using EzriCare Artificial Tears or Delsam Pharma’s Artificial Tears. Read the FDA alert.