INDIANA – Walmart is recalling about 3,900 bottles of an aromatherapy spray due to “a rare and dangerous bacteria” that can cause a potentially fatal condition.
Investigators are looking into two deaths so far.
The room spray, in four different scents, was sold at 55 Walmart locations nationwide and online from February through October 2021.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tested Walmart’s Better Homes and Gardens Essential Oil Infused Aromatherapy Room Spray with Gemstones and found Burkholderia pseudomallei bacteria, which can cause a potentially fatal condition called melioidosis.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the CDC has been investigating four confirmed cases of the condition in Kansas, Minnesota, Texas, and Georgia, along with two deaths, including one child fatality.
The CDC did not confirm the source of the four infections but noted that a bottle with the same type of bacteria was found in the home of one of the melioidosis decedents.
Consistent with CDC recommendations, consumers should immediately stop using the recalled room spray, double bag the bottle in clean, clear zip-top resealable bags, place it in a small cardboard box and return it to any Walmart store for a full refund. Do not open the bottle. Do not attempt to throw away or dispose of the bottle.
Customers will also receive a $20 Walmart Gift Card upon return.
