EDANA, the trade association representing most manufacturers of feminine hygiene products in EMEA, on Jan. 13 learned of the sad passing of Maëlle Laurence due to a case of toxic shock. “We would like to extend our condolences to her family in these difficult moments,” the association said in a statement.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is extremely rare but can affect men, women and children of any age. TSS is not caused by tampons. It is caused by the common bacteria – Staphylococcus aureus – which normally live harmlessly on the skin and in bodily cavities of one in every three people. In rare cases certain strains of these bacteria can produce toxins (poisons) that cause TSS.

The use of tampons has been associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome and it is estimated that about half of TSS cases are related to menstruation, but the research on TSS has not reached any precise conclusions on the link between TSS and tampon use.

EDANA’s members would like to reassure consumers about the safety of the billions of tampons placed on the EU market annually. The products meet or exceed all applicable national and European regulations. EDANA and partner organisations in the U.K. and France (AHPMA and Group’hygiene) have worked to raise awareness about TSS and ensure that relevant information and studies are made available.

Manufacturers follow the EDANA devised  “EU Tampons Code of Practice”, a guidance paper published to harmonize consumer information in all EU countries, irrespective of brand. It includes advice on correct tampon use, information about Toxic Shock Syndrome and a standardized test method to ensure the absorbency ratings are consistent.

Tampons  have a long history of safe use and this has recently been tested and confirmed by several health and safety authorities. Tampons are subject to stringent general safety requirements and are included in the General Product Safety Directive 2001/95/EC (GPSD), which aims at ensuring that only safe consumer products are sold in the EU.