PA Dept. of Health Announces Infant Botulism Outbreak Linked to Formula

The Pennsylvania Department of Health has issued a health alert network announcement regarding an infant botulism outbreak that is linked to infant formula.

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On November 11, ByHeart, Inc. recalled all lots of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula in response to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) ongoing investigation into a recent outbreak of infant botulism.

According to the company’s website, the formula was sold through its website, ByHeart.com, as well as through retail stores nationwide, including Amazon, Kroger, Walmart, Whole Foods, Target, Sam’s Club, and others.

Infant botulism is a rare but potentially fatal paralytic illness that affects babies less than 1 year old. Symptoms can include constipation, poor feeding, drooping eyelids, a weak cry, and progressive muscle weakness.

Treatment with botulism immune globulin, BabyBIG®, obtained from the California Department of Health, is recommended for all suspected cases of the illness.

Infant botulism is a reportable disease in Pennsylvania. All suspected cases must be reported to the state’s Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH or to a local health department.

For more information, read the health alert network announcement on The Pennsylvania Key website.