Another infant has been sickened with botulism tied to a recalled baby formula, health officials say, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to four. The latest case has added to an ongoing investigation into illnesses linked to the product, which was pulled from shelves last month.
Infant botulism is a rare but serious illness. It is caused when babies consume bacteria with spores that then produce a toxin in the gut, and it can require hospitalization as young patients are treated for the effects of the toxin.
According to the FDA, four cases have now been reported in California, Pennsylvania and Washington State, with the illnesses occurring between April and May. Three of the infants were hospitalized as a result of the botulism, officials said.
The babies who fell ill had consumed Nara Organics Whole Milk Organic Powdered Infant Formula, which was recalled last month. The recall came as officials worked to trace the source of the illnesses back to a specific product.
The formula had been sold nationwide, available at Target stores as well as online through the company's website. That broad distribution has been a focus for health officials warning parents and caregivers about the recalled product.
In response to the latest case, the company said it was saddened to hear that an additional case had been added to the investigation. Health authorities are continuing to look into the outbreak as they work to prevent any further illnesses tied to the recalled formula.