Recent injuries related to contaminated heparin-filled I-V medical syringes. The syringes are often used as part of home therapy, including use in patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment.

According to a heath alert issued by a local news agency on December 21, 2007, at least 13 people from Escambia and Santa Rosa counties have become ill with Serratia Marcescens (mar-shush-ens) after using the contaminated syringes as part of home i-v therapy. The syringes were manufactured in North Carolina and are labeled "Sierra Pre-Filled," lot number 070926h.

Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and chills. According to news reports, cases of the rare bloodstream infection appear to have occurred in up to five states, including Texas, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Florida. Call 800-299-8878 to discuss this matter if you think you may have been contaminated.