Health officials recall contaminated hand wash in UK

Health officials have issued an urgent warning about a popular hand wash, Elbow Grease Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner. Some bottles may be contaminated with harmful bacteria that can cause infections. The Office for Product Safety and Standards has advised consumers not to use the affected hand wash. This warning is particularly important for people with damaged skin or those who might accidentally get the soap in their eyes. The bacteria found in the product are called aerobic mesophilic bacteria, which can thrive in warm, oxygen-rich environments. Shoppers who bought the 500ml size of the hand soap should check for the barcode 5053249248059 and batch code 00645. If their product matches, they should return it to the store where it was purchased for a refund. The soap is described as being in a clear plastic bottle with a red lid and contains yellow hand cleansing gel. The bacteria present can lead to serious health issues, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems, burns, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms of exposure can include skin irritation, eye problems, and respiratory issues. So far, no injuries related to this product have been reported. Consumers are urged to act quickly to ensure their safety and avoid potential health risks.