Using hand sanitizer is more important than ever these days, and the product has become so in demand that consumers in Kentucky may be anxious to purchase a bottle the minute they see it on store shelves, regardless of its brand. However, over 100 hand sanitizer products have been recalled because they contain methanol — a toxic chemical that could cause harm when the product is used.
Recent statistics on the hand sanitizer recall
Methanol is a chemical often found in fuel and antifreeze. However, if absorbed through the skin it can be dangerously poisonous. As of August 4, 115 hand sanitizer products have been found to have unsafe levels of methanol and have been recalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Many of these hand sanitizers were manufactured in Mexico. At least one fatality due to the methanol-containing hand sanitizer was reported by the FDA.
The effects of methanol exposure
The effects of methanol exposure are many. Those who use methanol-containing hand sanitizer even as directed can experience nausea and vomiting, temporary to permanent vision problems, headaches and seizures. The could fall into a coma or even suffer permanent damage to their nervous system. Immediate treatment should be sought if you experience these systems after using hand sanitizer as it is intended.
Seek help if you used tainted hand sanitizer
If you have used one of the recalled hand sanitizers and experience health complications it is important to seek medical care. In addition, you may want to determine whether it is possible to pursue a products liability claim. Doing so can be a way to seek the compensation needed to pay for your medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering you experienced due to the defective product.
