Another Death Linked To Eyedrops Recalled In NJ

NEW JERSEY — Health officials reported another death linked to highly drug-resistant bacterial infections from contaminated eyedrops that have been recalled in New Jersey, as the number of cases grows.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said a fourth person died from the infection in an update Monday.

Cases of the "extensively drug-resistant" strain of P. aeruginosa have been discovered in 17 other states: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, North Carolina, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin.

Federal health officials linked the infections to EzriCare Artificial Tears, an eye drop used to treat irritation and dryness, after the same bacteria was found in open bottles. Most patients reported using the eye drops, officials said.

Related article: Infection Linked To Eyedrops Spreads To PA, CDC Issues Health Advisory

Patients who have used EzriCare and who have signs or symptoms of an eye infection should seek immediate medical care. Eye infection symptoms may include:

• Yellow, green, or clear discharge from the eye
• Eye pain or discomfort
• Redness of the eye or eyelid
• A feeling of something in your eye
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Blurry vision

Two other products have been voluntarily recalled by the same manufacturer (Global Pharma of India) in connection with the outbreak: Delsam Pharma Artificial Tears, and Delsam Pharma Artificial Ointment.