Baby Formula Recall Expanded After Child’s Death

Abbott Laboratories has expanded its recall for potentially dangerous baby formula products after a child died. The company recalled some Similac PM 60/40 cans and cases after the death of an infant who was exposed to the powdered baby formula died, officials said. According to a Reuters news report, the recalled cans and cases of the formula were produced at a Michigan facility. A few days earlier, Abbott recalled certain Alimentum, Similac, and EleCare baby formula products made at the facility in Sturgis following complaints that infants who consumed the formula developed potentially lethal bacterial infections.

Lethal Bacteria in Baby Formula

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said at the time that it was investigating consumer complaints regarding baby formula products. The FDA’s probe included four reports of Cronobacter sakazakii infections in children and one complaint of a Salmonella Newport infection in an infant, officials said, adding that Cronobacter may have contributed to death in two infants. This type of bacteria can cause serious invasive infections and premature infant death. The most recent U.S. outbreak occurred across four states back in 2011. The recalled Similac PM 60/40 products were distributed within the U.S. and sent to Israel. The FDA is working with Abbott to resume baby formula production in the Michigan facility safely. In addition to infants who died, there have also been reports of other babies that became ill due to consuming these products.

What to Do If You Are Affected

Both salmonella and cronobacter can cause potentially fatal illnesses. Coronobacter can cause sepsis or meningitis, which could prove life-threatening. In babies, symptoms of these illnesses could include jaundice, poor feeding, irritability, difficulty breathing, and abnormal movements. Salmonella bacteria cause a gastrointestinal illness known as salmonellosis. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. In severe cases, patients may experience high fever, aches, lethargy, rashes, and blood in urine or stools. If your child has been sickened by this baby formula or other defective products, it is important to understand that you have legal rights. You may be able to seek compensation for damages, including all medical expenses and pain and suffering, among other losses. An experienced product defect lawyer will advise you regarding your rights and options.   Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/similac-infant-formula-recall-expanded-childs-death-fda-says-rcna18076