At least 68 people have been infected by using artificial tears (Picture: Getty Images)

Three people have died from contaminated eyedrops in the US and four others have needed to have an eyeball removed.

Over-the-counter eyedrops by EzriCare and Delsam Phama have infected at least 68 people in 16 states, said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tuesday. The count was as of March 14.

‘Three people have died and there have been 8 reports of vision loss and 4 reports of enucleation (surgical removal of eyeball),’ stated the CDC.

Thirty-seven of the patients were treated across four healthcare facility groups.

The majority of patients reported using artificial tears

Patients and providers are advised to stop using EzriCare or Delsam Pharma artificial tears until the CDC and Food and Drug Administration release more information and guidance.

At least 68 people across 16 states have been infected by using artificial tears