Nasal Sprays Sold at Illinois Walgreens Stores Recalled for Bacterial Contamination

Cold and flu season is just ramping up in Illinois, and if nasal sprays are something you rely on to make it through, you better check your medicine cabinet immediately.

Relief for Sniffles

Fall in Illinois is a rough time for my sinuses, and I'm getting really tired of sniffling, blowing my nose, and clearing my throat constantly. Sure, there are medications that can ease those allergy symptoms, but I don't like taking meds all the time.

Sometimes I just need quick relief for a stuffy nose, and nasal sprays are a good thing to reach for in that case. I have tried many of the nasal sprays available in stores, and usually I reach for store brands first. If you're like me and buy most of your medicines from Walgreens, I have some bad news to share.

Major Walgreens Nasal Spray Recall

Walgreens has recalled over 40,000 bottles of its Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol after discovering they may be contaminated with a type of bacteria called Pseudomonas lactis that often causes dairy products to spoil. Yes, you read that right, dairy bacteria in nasal spray. Gross!

Before you panic, this recall isn't being considered a high-level emergency. The FDA has labeled it a Class II recall, which means the product could cause temporary medical issues.

If you recently purchased a Walgreens nasal spray, here's what you need to check your medicine cabinet for ASAP:

• 1.5-ounce (45mL) bottles of Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol
• Lots Number 61409 (expiration date 2/28/2027) or 71861 (expiration date 8/31/2027)

These products were sold at Walgreens stores throughout Illinois, and no one has been able to confirm how the possible contamination happened yet.

If you recently purchased one of these recalled bottles, stop using it immediately and return it to Walgreens.