Nationwide Baby Formula Botulism Outbreak Spreads To Massachusetts

A nationwide botulism outbreak linked to baby formula has spread to Massachusetts.

Two infants in Massachusetts have been infected with botulism, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nationwide, 39 children have been diagnosed with botulism, including one in Rhode Island who was among the initial 15 cases across 12 states, all of which involved hospitalizations.

Related: Baby Formula Recalled In MA; 15 Infant Botulism Cases Reported In U.S.

Rhode Island still has only one case of botulism.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health had previously alerted parents and caregivers about a voluntary recall of infant formula following the multi-state outbreak of botulism.

Related: Rhode Island Baby Caught Botulism: RIDOH

The 39 cases were found in 18 states, the CDC reported.

The CDC, U.S. Food and Drug Administration and health officials in several states are probing the "multistate outbreak of infant botulism linked to infant formula," according to the CDC.

Related: Rhode Island Baby's Botulism Case Just 1 In 12 State Outbreak: RIDOH

ByHeart, "a next-generation baby nutrition company," recalled batches of its baby formula after the initial outbreak, the FDA reported.

Symptoms of infant botulism can take several weeks to develop, according to the CDC.

See also: MA Flu Cases Rising As New Variant Spreads

"Infant botulism happens when a baby swallows Clostridium botulinum spores that grow in the gut and make toxin," the CDC said. "Infant botulism often starts with constipation but is usually first noticed as difficulty feeding (sucking and swallowing), a weak and altered cry, and lack of head control."

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