Virginia Baby Sickened In Botulism Outbreak Linked To Formula

Federal health officials are continuing to investigate a multistate outbreak of infant botulism linked to recalled ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday. One case has been reported in Virginia.

As of Dec. 3, 39 infants with suspected or confirmed botulism have been reported across 18 states, though no deaths have occurred.

The affected babies range in age from 16 days to about 9 months. All 39 infants, including the one in Virginia, were hospitalized and treated with BabyBIG, an intravenous medication intended for use in children under a year old.

The CDC said the investigation remains open, and a recall has been issued. ByHeart Inc. voluntarily recalled two lots of its Whole Nutrition Infant Formula on Nov. 8:

• Lot 206VABP/251261P2 (“Use by 01 Dec 2026”)
• Lot 206VABP/251131P2 (“Use by 01 Dec 2026”)

Infant botulism occurs when spores from the Clostridium botulinum bacteria infect a baby’s large intestine and produce a dangerous toxin. The illness can cause muscle paralysis and difficulty breathing.

Health officials said early signs often include constipation, poor feeding (trouble sucking and swallowing), a weak or altered cry, loss of head control, and decreased facial expression. Parents and caregivers should contact a doctor immediately if these symptoms appear after consuming ByHeart formula.

ByHeart’s formula makes up less than 1 percent of all U.S. infant formula sales, and the recall was not expected to cause shortages.

More information about the outbreak is available through the CDC.