Health Alert: Botulism suspected in hospitalized Nassau County infant
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the outbreak has been tied to ByHeart brand powdered infant formula.
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A Nassau County infant is hospitalized after a suspected case of botulism potentially linked to a nationwide outbreak involving powdered baby formula. Health officials say the child, under the age of one, is in stable condition.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the outbreak has been tied to ByHeart brand powdered infant formula, which has been associated with 13 confirmed cases of infant botulism in 10 states since August. While no cases have yet been officially confirmed in New York, Nassau County health officials are investigating this suspected case.
“Botulism basically causes, the toxin that it releases can cause paralysis of the muscles,” said Dr. John Zaso, an East Meadow pediatrician and member of the Nassau Board of Health. “The toxin progresses and eventually paralyzes the diaphragm, and you have trouble breathing or can’t breathe.”
Dr. Zaso explained that botulism is caused by bacteria, and if untreated, it can be fatal. Symptoms may include constipation, poor feeding, a floppy head and a weak or altered cry. In severe cases, infants may experience difficulty breathing. Symptoms can take up to 30 days to appear.
In response to the outbreak, ByHeart has issued a recall of certain lots of its Whole Nutrition Infant Formula. The recalled products include:
Lot 206VABP/251261P2
— “Use by 01 Dec. 2026”
Lot 206VABP/251131P2
— “Use by 01 Dec. 2026”
Health officials are urging parents and caregivers to stop using recalled products immediately.
“If you bought this ByHeart formula, discard it,” Dr. Zaso said. “Don’t use it—switch to one of the other brands.”
Parents are advised to seek immediate medical attention if an infant shows any signs of botulism. They should also record the information printed on the bottom of the formula package and report it to health authorities.
