Fungal concerns spark nationwide recall of Zicam, Orajel products

(WJW) – Swabs under two well-known brand names have been recalled over potential fungi-related microbial contamination.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Church & Dwight Co., Inc. is voluntarily recalling some Zicam and Orajel products because fungi could be present in the items’ cotton swab components.

The recalled products include all lots within expiry of Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, Zicam Nasal AllClear Swabs, and Orajel Baby Teething Swabs to the consumer level.

Consumers are advised to “immediately” stop using the recalled products.

“Swabs found to contain microbial contamination can potentially present a significant risk to the health and safety of consumers including serious and life-threatening blood infections in users whose nasal mucosa may be compromised due to inflammation and mechanical injuries,” reads the recall alert. “The risk is highest (potentially severe or life-threatening) among children and individuals with compromised immune systems or other underlying medical conditions.”

The FDA said, so far, no serious adverse events associated with the affected product have been reported. The recalled products were distributed nationwide in the United States and in Puerto Rico, said the FDA.

Here are the specific details to check for:

• Zicam® Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, with UPC 732216301205, all lots: A zinc-free, homeopathic cold remedy swab designed to shorten the duration of the common cold.
• Zicam® Nasal AllClear Swabs, with UPC 732216301656, all lots: A nasal cleansing swab product (discontinued in December 2024).
• Orajel™ Baby Teething Swabs, with UPC 310310400002, all lots: Pre-moistened swabs designed to soothe teething discomfort in infants and toddlers.

You can view images of the recalled products in the slideshow below:

“This recall is limited exclusively to Zicam and Orajel swab products. All other Zicam and Orajel products, including Zicam RapidMelts, are not affected by this recall,” states the FDA on its website.

Consumers can  Click here or call (800) 981-4710 for refund details.