Botulism Outbreak Linked to Baby Formula Reaches Massachusetts
A national infant botulism outbreak has officially spread to Massachusetts, where health officials have confirmed two cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided an update in late November, confirming the expansion of the outbreak that has been ongoing since early August.
The two infected infants in Massachusetts are among 39 total cases reported across the country. The CDC has not released specific information regarding where the sick infants reside within the state. All 39 infants affected nationwide have required hospitalization, though thankfully, no deaths have been reported.
This situation is serious. The outbreak has been directly linked to a specific baby formula product, prompting a nationwide recall.
ByHeart Formula Recall and National Impact
The source of the botulism outbreak has been traced to ByHeart’s Whole Nutrition Infant Formula. In response, the company has recalled all lots of the powdered formula, which is sold across the United States. Parents and caregivers are strongly urged to immediately stop using this product.
Officials advise customers to either throw the formula away or return it to the point of purchase for a refund. Before disposing of any ByHeart formula cans, it is critical to take a photo or write down the lot numbers printed on the bottom of the container for your records.
The outbreak’s impact is widespread. While Texas has reported the highest number of cases with eight, the illness has appeared in multiple states. Neighboring New England states have also been affected, with one case reported in Maine and another in Rhode Island. According to the CDC, laboratory confirmations for several other suspected cases are still in progress, meaning the total number of affected infants could rise.
Case tracking data from the CDC shows the outbreak began with a single reported case on August 10. The frequency of infections began to accelerate in mid-October before spiking significantly in November.
What is Infant Botulism?
Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that attacks the body’s nerves. This toxin is produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. While the bacteria is naturally found in many places like soil and dust, it seldom makes people sick.
Under specific low-oxygen conditions, however, the bacterial spores can grow and create one of the most lethal toxins known. Infant botulism occurs when a baby ingests these spores. An infant’s digestive system is not yet mature enough to prevent these spores from growing and producing the toxin directly within their gut.
This is different from foodborne botulism in adults, which typically happens from eating foods already contaminated with the pre-formed toxin.
Symptoms Parents Must Watch For
The CDC urges anyone whose infant has consumed the recalled ByHeart formula to monitor them closely for 30 days after their last feeding with the product. The symptoms of infant botulism can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to appear after exposure.
The first sign is often constipation, which can be easily missed or attributed to other causes. As the toxin’s effects progress, more severe symptoms related to muscle weakness will emerge. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant for the following signs:
- Difficulty feeding or a weak suck
- Loss of head control or a “floppy” appearance
- A weak or altered cry that sounds different than usual
- Reduced facial expression or a “flat” look
- General muscle weakness and decreased movement
It is important to note that for infants who may have been exposed but are not showing symptoms, health officials state there is no recommended test or preventative treatment. The only course of action is watchful waiting. If any of these symptoms appear, seek immediate medical attention.