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Deadly Botulism Threatens Babies: Formula Still on Shelves
5 Dec
Summary
- Nearly 40 infants across 18 states hospitalized since August due to botulism outbreak.
- Recalled ByHeart infant formula reportedly still available at major retailers like Walmart.
- At least four families have filed lawsuits against ByHeart, alleging illness from formula.
An alarming infant botulism outbreak has prompted the recall of ByHeart's Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, impacting babies nationwide. As of Wednesday, 39 infants in 18 states have been hospitalized since August due to the rare but potentially deadly disease, with Texas and California reporting the highest numbers of cases.
Despite the nationwide recall, the FDA has received reports that the affected formula is still being displayed for sale at prominent retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Kroger. The agency is collaborating with retailers to ensure the product is removed from shelves, safeguarding more infants from exposure.
At least four families have initiated lawsuits against ByHeart, asserting that their infants fell ill after consuming the contaminated formula. Parents are strongly advised against using the recalled product and to consult a pediatrician immediately if their child exhibits symptoms of botulism, including poor feeding, weakness, and difficulty swallowing.
