Several fatal cases of the exotic infection melioidosis have been reported in the United States. The cause was caused by scented home sprays from India, CNN reports
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned against further use of the sprays and issued a warning to health workers describing the symptoms of the disease, which include high fever, headaches, purulent swelling in the liver, lungs, spleen and prostate.
“In October, the CDC said it had investigated a case of fatal infection in the state of Georgia. The spread of the infection was linked to the purchase of a fragrance spray from the popular Walmart shop chain. Three other cases have been reported in Kansas, Minnesota and Texas. A patient in Kansas has also died”, – the channel reported.
Diagnosing melioidosis is complicated because it is a tropical disease and usually associated with travel, but none of those infected have travelled outside the US. The investigation found that the infection was due to Better Homes’ scented spray made in India with lavender and chamomile essential oils, which was “infused with ‘gems’.
“Five other fragrance sprays from the same brand “with gems” are currently being tested for infection […] People have been advised to stop using the sprays from this brand. But do not throw them away, but pack them carefully and return them to the shop”, – the CDC stressed.