The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on Tuesday that the death toll from an outbreak of extensively drug-resistant bacteria, which was linked to recalled eye drops, has now risen to three. The CDC confirmed two more deaths in individuals infected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, bringing the total number of fatalities to three.
According to the CDC’s latest update, out of the 68 patients identified across 16 states with the bacteria, eight people have lost their vision, and four have had their eyeballs removed. One death had previously been reported in a man from Washington state.
In response to the outbreak, health authorities have recalled three eye products from the brands EzriCare and Delsam Pharma. All of these products were imported from Indian firm Global Pharma Healthcare Private Limited. The outbreak is suspected to be linked to opened eye drops that were purchased online and in retailers, as well as those obtained through ophthalmologist offices. Health officials are continuing to investigate the outbreak.