Outbreaks can mean months of investigation for the company involved, the FDA, CDC and other public health departments. It can mean hundreds of recalls on product and a damaged company name from growing distrust. A 2014 mold outbreak resulted in the fatality of a 29-week-old infant. A product recall in over 25 states across the United States followed. The premature infant experienced immune system trouble and the hospital attempted to remedy the issue by treating the child with a probiotic.
Probiotics can be found in yogurt, capsule, or powder form and is intended to flood the consumer’s large intestine, or colon, with healthy bacteria over time. The harmless bacteria from these sources are valuable because they occupy space and nutrients, which otherwise a harmful microbe could nest in. Being preterm, the infant lacked both a fully functioning immune system and precious gut microbes to prevent the mold’s spread.
The mold, Rhizopus Orgzae, is an opportunistic fungus that takes residence is dead matter. Upon surgical investigation, the hospital found the infant’s bowel was necrotized, which happens when cells die. The bowl was heavily inhabited by the fungus, which caused mucormycosis. Mucormycosis is a rare, acute infection caused by fungus of the order Mucorales. Symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea and fever (1).
These is little to be done in sensitive cases where patients have a compromised immune system. The irreplaceable loss of a child cannot be reversed nor could it be foreseen. Outbreaks like this highlight the importance of utilizing numerous resources before shipping products. Outbreaks are preventable with the right education and resources. Good Manufacturing Practices, like what Sure-BioChem promotes, lessens the risk for financial and emotion expenses that could punch holes in a company. Take advantage of SBL’s Environmental Monitoring to identify any molds, viruses, or bacteria in your products or request Cleanroom Training where SBL can assist you in creating efficient philosophies for your company to stick by.
References
1. http://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/mucormycosis/
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Sure-BioChem Laboratories
Sure-BioChem Laboratories offers top-notch analytical testing for various industries. Our advanced lab and expert team ensure reliable, quality results. We're committed to excellence, helping clients meet high standards in environmental, food, and pharmaceutical testing.
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Camden, NJ 08104
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