Cardinal Health Recalls Alcohol Prep Pads Over Bacterial Contamination Risk

Cardinal Health is recalling some of its alcohol prep pads after tests found possible bacterial contamination that could lead to infections. The company said certain lots of its Webcol Large Alcohol Prep Pads (70% isopropyl alcohol) may contain the bacteria Paenibacillus phoenicis, which could cause infections on the skin and more serious infections that spread through the body.

People with weaker immune systems face the greatest risk, including patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy and those with poorly controlled diabetes. In these cases, infections could become serious, including bacteremia or infections that affect the central nervous system.

The recalled pads were distributed between September 2025 and February 2026 in the United States, Puerto Rico, and Japan. The recall applies only to certain lot numbers, with the full list available from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Cardinal Health said it notified customers on March 2, 2026, and provided specific steps to reduce risk of infection, including reviewing inventory for the affected product code, segregating and quarantining all affected product, disseminating the notice to all departments and clinics, notifying any customers who may have received affected product, and returning an acknowledgment form.

Consumers who may have used the prep pads and feel sick should contact a health care provider. Side effects or product issues can be reported to the FDA's MedWatch program online, by mail, or by fax. For questions, consumers can call 800-292-9332 or email the company directly.

The recall is being carried out with the knowledge of the FDA.