The recent FDA advisory about parents not using Similac, Alimentum and EleCare made at an Abbott factory has many moms nervous about possible effects and what they'll give in place of some of those specialized formulas.
Abott voluntarily recalled the formulas that were made at a Sturgis, MI, factory after they were linked to reports of bacterial infections in babies, one of whom died. You can find out more about the specific formulas here.
The advisory said,
The FDA said that all four of the babies were hospitalized and Cronobacter may have been the contributing factor of death in one case.
Cronobacter can cause sepsis and meningitis, among other severe infections. Symptoms can include fevers, jaundice, diarrhea, crankiness and poor appetite. Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever and cramping.
Abbott said they tested for the bacteria and found evidence in the 'non-product contact' areas at the Sturgis factory, but no evidence of Salmonella Newport. Abbott said that no product distributed has tested positive for either of those bacteria either.
Joe Manning is the executive vice president, nutritional products of Abbott. He said,
Abott voluntarily recalled the formulas that were made at a Sturgis, MI, factory after they were linked to reports of bacterial infections in babies, one of whom died. You can find out more about the specific formulas here.
The advisory said,
The FDA is investigating the four infant illnesses that are related to the formulas, looking specifically at Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella.
The FDA said that all four of the babies were hospitalized and Cronobacter may have been the contributing factor of death in one case.
Cronobacter can cause sepsis and meningitis, among other severe infections. Symptoms can include fevers, jaundice, diarrhea, crankiness and poor appetite. Salmonella can cause diarrhea, fever and cramping.
Abbott said they tested for the bacteria and found evidence in the 'non-product contact' areas at the Sturgis factory, but no evidence of Salmonella Newport. Abbott said that no product distributed has tested positive for either of those bacteria either.
Joe Manning is the executive vice president, nutritional products of Abbott. He said,
Frank Yiannas is the FDA deputy commissioner for food policy and response. He said,
In the meantime, mothers who use those formulas, particularly the specialized Alimentum and EleCare are worried about transitioning for their babies. Abbott and the FDA both say they're working to ensure safe replenishment as they can.
