Australian health authorities have issued an urgent recall for a batch of Deep Heat Extra Strength cream, sold in major retailers including Coles, Woolworths and Chemist Warehouse, after tests found bacterial contamination. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced the recall on Monday, warning consumers who purchased affected stock not to use the product due to potential health risks.

The recall applies to two batches of the 100g cream, identified by batch codes V772 and V773, both with a June 2029 expiry date. Testing found higher than acceptable levels of the bacterium Pluralibacter gergoviae, which the TGA warned could cause serious infections, particularly in people with broken skin or weakened immune systems. Manufacturer Mentholatum Australasia has urged affected customers to return the product to the place of purchase or contact the company directly for assistance.