Burkholderia outbreak

 

UKHSA is investigating an outbreak of Burkholderia stabilis (a type bacteria or ‘germ’) involving individuals across the UK, linked to wipes. Following testing, this germ has been found in several non-sterile alcohol-free skin cleansing wipes, including those used for wound care and included in first aid kits.

Actions advised:

  1. Caring for IV lines (tubes that go into a vein):
    Make sure local rules follow national guidelines. Do not use non-sterile alcohol free wipes — they are not safe for this use.

  2. Advice for patients at home with IV lines:
    Only use wipes if a nurse or doctor tells you to. Only use the wipes they give you or recommend. Never use non-sterile alcohol-free wipes. All patients with IV lines should know this. Add this advice to patient leaflets and care plans.

  3. Using wipes on cuts or wounds:
    Patients should only use sterile wipes (this will be written on the packet) on broken skin. Local health guidance and patient information should follow NHS rules.

  4. Reporting infections:
    Hospitals and labs should send samples of any new infections caused by Burkholderia cepacia complex (including from cystic fibrosis patients) to the UKHSA specialist lab.

 
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