Urgent Recall of Contaminated Skin Cleanser in Birmingham Stores
A widely used skin cleanser available at Boots and Superdrug outlets across Birmingham has been urgently pulled from shelves following the discovery of potential microbial contamination. The recall affects three specific batches of the Hibiwash antimicrobial wash, which is also sold on Amazon, prompting immediate action from retailers and health authorities.
Details of the Recall and Affected Batches
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued the recall as a precautionary measure, citing contamination at a manufacturing facility. The impacted batch numbers are:
- 5156042
- 5156043
- 5156093
Shareen Doak, Deputy Director of Benefit-Risk Evaluation at the MHRA, emphasized that no reports of patient harm have been linked to the contamination so far. However, customers in possession of these batches are advised to return them to a pharmacy for safe disposal to mitigate any risks.
Health Advice and Alternative Products
Individuals who have used the product and are concerned about potential infections or adverse reactions should seek medical advice promptly. The MHRA encourages reporting any suspected adverse reactions through its Yellow Card Scheme. For those needing alternatives, other chlorhexidine gluconate 4% washes remain available and are not affected by this recall.
Special attention is being given to high-risk groups, such as people with cystic fibrosis or those awaiting lung transplants. Anyone in these categories who has been supplied with Hibiwash since February 10, 2026, will be contacted directly to verify if they have an impacted batch and to provide further guidance.
Retailer Response and Consumer Actions
Both Boots and Superdrug, which have multiple stores in Birmingham, have swiftly removed the product from sale. Shoppers are urged to:
- Immediately stop using the Hibiwash cleanser if it matches the recalled batches.
- Return the product to a pharmacy for safe disposal.
- Contact their healthcare team if they have concerns, especially if they fall into high-risk categories.
This recall highlights the importance of vigilance in product safety and the proactive steps taken by regulatory bodies to protect public health in the community.
