A Pierce County infant is recovering in the hospital after drinking a recalled formula that federal health officials recently linked to a nationwide infant botulism outbreak.
A baby in Pierce County was diagnosed with suspected infant botulism on Thursday, Nov. 13, after consuming ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, according to the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department.
The infant is being treated at a local hospital while the Washington State Department of Health completes testing to confirm the illness.
Health officials said the case may be connected to a growing outbreak that began over the summer. Since August, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified 23 cases in 13 states, including one involving an infant who lived in Lewis County at the time of exposure.
Although infant botulism can be life-threatening, no deaths have been reported in the current outbreak, officials said. Several infants remain hospitalized nationwide.
Nationwide Recall Issued
On Tuesday, Nov. 11, the Food and Drug Administration recalled all lots of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula sold in 24-ounce cans and 0.6-ounce single-serve packets. Officials urged parents and caregivers to immediately stop using the product.
Dr. James Miller, Tacoma-Pierce County Health Officer, said families should watch closely for symptoms and seek medical care right away if concerns arise.
“If your child consumed this formula and later develops symptoms of botulism, please contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency care,” Miller said. He emphasized that officials are not aware of any cases connected to other formula brands.
What Parents Should Do Now
Health officials recommend the following steps:
- Stop using all ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula immediately.
- Keep any remaining formula—even unopened containers—and label it “DO NOT USE.”
- Record any lot numbers from opened containers that were consumed.
- Store the product for one month in case public health needs to test it.
- Wash bottles, surfaces, and feeding items with hot soapy water or run them through a dishwasher.
Symptoms of infant botulism can take several weeks to appear and may include constipation, poor feeding, weak or altered crying, and decreased muscle tone. Severe cases can lead to breathing problems and paralysis if not treated promptly.
Washington typically sees about four infant botulism cases each year, most in babies age six months or younger.
Find more information about infant botulism from the Cleveland Clinic.
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