At least four people have died, and 14 others have lost their vision due to the use of contaminated eye drops, according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released on Friday via ABC News.
Currently, there have been reports of 14 people experiencing vision loss, in addition to the eight cases reported in the last update in March. Four individuals have undergone surgical removal of their eyeballs.
The contaminated eye drops contain an aggressive bacterium called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is commonly found in the environment, particularly in soil, and is the leading cause of infections in humans.
This bacterium is resistant to multiple types of antibiotics and has caused approximately 32,600 infections and hospitalizations in the United States, with an estimated 2,700 deaths, according to the CDC report.
Global Pharma Healthcare has voluntarily recalled its eye drops from the market. Although patients claim to have used over 10 different brands of eye drops, the majority of cases have been linked to Ezricare and Delsa Pharma.
As of May 15, 81 people in 18 states have been infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with an increase of 13 patients since the last update.
Symptoms of this infection may include:
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Eye discharge
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Redness and inflammation of the eye
The CDC and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued alerts to consumers regarding these brands and advised them to discontinue their use for their own health and safety.
If you or a loved one have experienced these symptoms and suspect a possible infection due to the use of contaminated eye drops such as Ezricare, Delsa Pharma, or other brands of eye drops or artificial tears, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit, and hold those responsible for the harm they caused you.
At Farahi Law Firm, we assist victims of defective products and medications in seeking the justice they deserve. We can help you file a lawsuit against the manufacturer, producer, and retailer who sold you a harmful product, causing you losses and injuries.
We are ready to win your case! Call us today for a free consultation.
