Federal and state health officials are currently investigating 13 documented cases of infant botulism across 10 different states, which have been linked to a specific baby formula that is undergoing a recall. The company involved, ByHeart Inc., has consented to recall two particular lots of its Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, as stated in a recent announcement by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The affected infants were all hospitalized after consuming formula from the two recalled lots, specifically identified as 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2. The cases have been reported from various states, including Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Importantly, there have been no reported fatalities associated with these cases so far.
The FDA is actively investigating the source of the contamination and is examining whether the issue extends to any other products beyond those being recalled. The implicated formula has made its way into the market, accounting for an estimated 1% of national formula sales, as noted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In light of the recall, individuals who purchased the affected formula are advised to note the lot number if possible before disposing of the product or returning it to the point of purchase. The CDC recommends thorough cleaning of any items and surfaces that may have come into contact with the formula. Parents are also urged to seek immediate medical attention if their infant exhibits symptoms such as poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing, or diminished facial expression after consuming the recalled formula.
Infant botulism results from a bacterium that produces toxins within the large intestine of infants. Symptoms of the condition may take several weeks to manifest, hence the need for parents to remain vigilant regarding their infant's health, as advised by the CDC.
A representative from ByHeart did not respond immediately to requests for comments regarding the situation on Saturday.
