Health & Fitness

Children's Toy Sold At MI Walmart, Ollies Recalled Over Asbestos Concerns

Officials said there is no safe amount of asbestos exposure.

The recall involves the "Orb Funkee" squeeze toys purchased from Walmart or Ollies Bargain Outlet.
The recall involves the "Orb Funkee" squeeze toys purchased from Walmart or Ollies Bargain Outlet. (United States Consumer Product Safety Commission)

Health officials are asking parents to check their homes for a children's toy that has been recalled due to possible asbestos exposure.

The recall involves the "Orb Funkee" squeeze toys purchased from Walmart or Ollies Bargain Outlet.

The toys are soft, stretchable monkeys that are filled with sand. There are two models: one is a large golden monkey, while the other is a series of smaller monkeys that are orange, purple and green.

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The date code can be found on the hand of the golden monkey or the back of the smaller monkey's.

"Asbestos is dangerous for everyone," health officials said in a statement. "It can take a long time for it to leave our bodies and can cause lasting lung problems. It is especially dangerous to young children whose lungs are still developing."

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Officials said people can reach out to The Orb Factory for a refund.

If the toy has not been broken open, officials asked people to seal it in two heavy plastic bags and taking it to a Type 2 licensed landfill.

If the toy has a rip or sand has leaked from the toy, officials recommend finding a licensed contractor to clean up and dispose of the asbestos.

Officials recommend against sweeping or vacuuming the spilled sand because it can cause asbestos to spread in the air, making it easier to breathe in and potentially causing long-term lung damage.

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