October 23, 1997

SPRINGFIELD, IL -- A voluntary recall of latex condoms purchased from Ansell Incorporated of New Jersey by the Illinois Department of Public Health for distribution to local health department sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinics has been initiated because the condoms may deteriorate before the end of their shelf life.

Since January 1996, the Department has provided 340,000 Ansell condoms with spermicidal lubricant that are included in the recall to local health departments. Another 260,000 condoms the Department had yet to distribute have been returned to the company for replacement condoms.

Local health departments are being notified to immediately discontinue distributing these condoms and to advise their STD clients not to use the condoms.

Ansell said recent tests have found the product may no longer comply with the standards set forth by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Some of the condoms deteriorated before the end of their shelf life and may not adequately protect against pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases.

The recall includes LifeStyles Extra Strength with Spermicide condoms with expiration dates from October 1997 through April 2000. The expiration date can be found on the individual wrapper, the package end-flap or back panel, as well as the master case.

The condoms are distributed to local health department STD clients during one-to-one counseling sessions. Condoms are provided to clients who receive information on the correct and consistent use of the product.

Illinois Department of Public Health 535 West Jefferson Street Springfield, Illinois 62761 Phone 217-782-4977 Fax 217-782-3987 TTY 800-547-0466 Questions or Comments