Squeeze toys sold at Walmart, Ollie’s recalled over asbestos concern

(NEXSTAR) – A popular squeeze toy sold at Walmart and Ollie’s Bargain Outlet stores is being recalled over concerns of “serious injury or death” because of the potential presence of asbestos.

A recall notice shared by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on Thursday warns that certain Orb Funkee Squeeze Toys — specifically, two models of Funkee Monkees — may have asbestos in the sand they are filled with.

While there have been no injuries or incidents reported in connection with the recalled toys, the CPSC says asbestos “can cause adverse health issues if inhaled.”

Asbestos is naturally occurring and can appear when old asbestos products break down or are disposed of, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains.

Asbestos fibers, which are too small to see, can become caught in your lungs during exposure. According to the CDC, asbestos exposure can lead to lung cancer and mesothelioma, as well as asbestosis, scarring in the lungs, and pleural disease, which can impact the membrane around the lungs and chest........

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