Walmart Recalls Room Spray Due to Rare and Deadly Bacteria

MONDAY, Oct. 25 (HealthDay News) -- Walmart has recalled an aromatic room spray sold nationwide after the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identified the presence of a "rare and dangerous" bacteria in the spray that is linked to four illnesses, including two deaths.

The retailer sold about 3,900 bottles of Better Homes and Gardens Essential Oil Infused Aromatherapy Room Spray with Gemstones in six different scents, according to a recall notice posted Friday. The aromatherapy spray was made in India.

The four cases of melioidosis illness occurred in Georgia, Kansas, Texas, and Minnesota, the CDC said. Melioidosis is typically found in parts of Asia and causes a variety of symptoms that can be confused with other common illnesses, such as flu or a cold. Melioidosis is a rare but serious disease in the United States, with about 12 cases reported annually.

In its investigation, the CDC found Burkholderia pseudomallei bacteria in "Better Homes & Gardens Lavender & Chamomile Essential Oil Infused Aromatherapy Room Spray with Gemstones," on Oct. 6 in the home of a Georgia resident who became ill with melioidosis in late July. Genetic testing of the bacteria that sickened the four patients is similar to that of strains usually found in South Asia.

The contaminated spray was sold at about 55 Walmart stores and on the Walmart website between February and Oct. 21, 2021. The Walmart recall includes the lavender and chamomile room spray and five other scents in the same product line.

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