A recall is issued for a possible significant risk with the use of Zicam and Orajel swabs – All affected products are listed below

If you’ve got Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, Zicam Nasal AllClear Swabs, or Orajel Baby Teething Swabs sitting in your medicine cabinet, it’s time to double-check those boxes.

On June 9, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a voluntary recall of all lots of these products due to potential microbial contamination. That’s right—the issue isn’t just some minor manufacturing error. The recall was triggered after fungi were found in the cotton swab components, which, according to the FDA, can “potentially present a significant risk to the health and safety of consumers including serious and life-threatening blood infections.”

This isn’t one of those “just-in-case” recalls. It’s serious. The company behind the products, Church & Dwight Co., pulled every lot off the shelves immediately.

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What products are affected in the Zicam and Orajel recall?

If you’re wondering “Which Zicam and Orajel swabs are being recalled?”—here’s a full list of the affected items:

• Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs
  
• Zicam Nasal AllClear Swabs
  
• Orajel Baby Teething Swabs
  

These are all sold as over-the-counter products, which means you might’ve picked them up without thinking twice—especially if you’ve been treating a cold or soothing a teething baby.

The recall applies to all lots, so it does not matter when you bought them or what the expiration date says.

What are the health risks of using these contaminated swabs?

You might be asking: “What happens if I’ve used one of these swabs?”

According to the FDA, the contaminated cotton swabs could introduce harmful fungi into your body which can lead to serious infections—especially for people with weak immune systems. The most alarming possibility? Bloodstream infections (also known as sepsis), which can become life-threatening if not treated quickly.

That risk is especially concerning for the Orajel Baby Teething Swabs, since infants have more vulnerable immune systems. If your baby has used one of these swabs recently and has developed a fever, rash, or other unusual symptoms, it’s best to check in with a doctor right away.

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How can you tell if you have a recalled product?

Wondering how to identify the recalled Zicam or Orajel swabs in your home? Check the product packaging for the name and product type. The recall affects all sizes and lot numbers, so you won’t find a “safe” version of these swabs right now.

Church & Dwight has stated that no other Orajel or Zicam products are affected, just the specific nasal and teething swabs. But if you are not sure, contact their customer support or dispose of the product entirely.

You can also visit the FDA’s website to find official recall information or contact Church & Dwight Consumer Relations at 1-800-833-9532.

What should you do if you already used a recalled swab?

If you’ve already used a recalled Zicam or Orajel swab, here’s what you need to do:

1. Monitor for symptoms – Keep an eye out for the signs of the infection like redness, swelling, fever, or any unusual reactions in your body.
   
2. Call your doctor – Especially if you or your child has a weakened immune system.
   
3. Report the product – The FDA encourages consumers to report any adverse reactions to its MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting Program.

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Are Zicam and Orajel swabs safe to use again?

If you’re searching “Can I still use Zicam or Orajel swabs?”, the answer is a hard no—at least for now. Until the contamination issue is fully resolved, steer clear of these specific swab-based products. While other Zicam or Orajel products (like gels and sprays) are currently considered safe, it’s smart to check the packaging or consult a pharmacist if you’re unsure.

Church & Dwight has not yet issued a timeline for re-release, so your best bet is to find alternative remedies for colds and teething relief.

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