FDA expands list of hand sanitizers across the U.S.

(KYMA, KECY)-The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)- expands the list of hand sanitizers some sold at Walmart, Costco, and other national chains due to toxic levels of wood alcohol in them causing injury or death.

The FDA says it has "seen a sharp increase in hand sanitizer products that are labeled to contain ethanol (also known as ethyl alcohol) but that have tested positive for methanol contamination."

Questions about methanol contamination in hand sanitizer? Visit FDAs searchable list to help you identify whether a firms’ hand sanitizer product is being recalled or has potential or confirmed methanol contamination: https://t.co/GeUwr33Y6W pic.twitter.com/iqn8Lop6hD

— FDA Drug Information (@FDA_Drug_Info) July 15, 2020

FDA reminds consumers to wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after coughing, sneezing, or blowing one’s nose.

If soap and water are not readily available, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend consumers use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent ethanol (also referred to as ethyl alcohol).

The FDA list an import alert on a number of hand sanitizers to stop the products from entering the U.S., including:

• Blumen products
• Klar and Danver Instant Hand Sanitizer (labeled with Greenbrier International)
• Modesa Instant Hand Sanitizer Moisturizers and Vitamin E
• Hello Kitty by Sanrio Hand Sanitizer
• Assured Aloe

For the complete list, go to FDA hand sanitizer updates.

NBC News says ten deaths and dozens of hospitalizations in Arizona and New Mexico are believed to be linked to methanol in hand sanitizers. The cases are also associated with alcohol use disorder.

FDA advise consumers to check the FDA's regularly updated list for dangerous hand sanitizers before buying an unknown brand.