CDC warns of infections, deaths linked to recalled eye drops

WISCONSIN (CBS 58) -- The CDC is warning about an infection caused by recalled eye drops. 

Some bottles of Global Pharma Healthcare's Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops have been linked to a rare strain of drug-resistant bacteria.

The CDC says 68 people in 16 states, including Wisconsin, have been infected with this bacteria. 

Three deaths have been linked to the outbreak.

A spokesperson from the American Academy of Ophthalmology says while this outbreak is concerning, the general public shouldn't worry.

"This is an extremely rare situation, so patients shouldn't be worried about using eye drops," said Dr. Sonal Tuli. "They do need to be careful when they put eye drops in -- patients will sometimes touch the bottle to their eye. They shouldn't do that."

The doctor stresses that if you experience any eye pain, redness or decreased vision, visit your eye doctor.