Federal and state health officials are currently investigating 13 reported cases of infant botulism across 10 different states. These cases have been linked to two lots of Whole Nutrition Infant Formula produced by ByHeart Inc., which has agreed to recall these affected products.
According to statements from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), all 13 infants were hospitalized after consuming formula from the recalled lots: 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2. The states where these cases have emerged include Arizona, California, Illinois, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington.
Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported so far. The FDA is actively investigating the cause of contamination and assessing whether any other products might be affected.
ByHeart's formula, which is widely available both online and through major retailers, constitutes roughly 1% of national formula sales, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Parents and caregivers who have purchased the recalled formula are urged to note the lot number before disposing of it or returning it to the place of purchase.
The CDC also recommends that individuals clean any items or surfaces that may have come into contact with the formula using a dishwasher or hot, soapy water. Parents should seek immediate medical attention if an infant who has consumed the recalled formula shows signs of poor feeding, loss of head control, difficulty swallowing, or diminished facial expressions.
Infant botulism is caused by a bacterium that produces toxins in the infant’s intestines, with symptoms potentially developing over several weeks. As a result, the CDC encourages parents to remain vigilant regarding their infants' health.
A spokesperson for ByHeart has yet to respond to inquiries for further comment on the situation.
