Pierce County Infant Suspected of Botulism; Formula Recall Underway
A Pierce County infant is currently hospitalized with suspected infant botulism, perhaps linked too a national outbreak and subsequent recall of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula. The case was reported on November 13, 2025, and the Washington State Department of Health is coordinating testing to confirm the diagnosis.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced an outbreak of infant botulism linked to infant formula on november 8, 2025. As of that date, at least 23 cases have been identified across 13 states, including a previous case in Lewis County.
On November 11, 2025, the Food and Drug Management (FDA) issued a recall for all lots of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula, encompassing both 24 oz. cans and 0.6 oz. single-serving packets.
Infant botulism is a rare but serious illness. Symptoms can include constipation, difficulty feeding, muscle weakness, and a diminished or altered cry. If left untreated, it can progress to paralysis, breathing difficulties, and potentially death.Symptoms may take several weeks to appear.
“If your child has consumed this formula and begins to exhibit any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency medical attention,” advises Dr. James Miller, Tacoma-Pierce County Health Officer. ”Currently, this outbreak is linked solely to ByHeart formula; no other brands have been implicated.”
Parents and guardians are urged to immediately discontinue use of all ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula products, including unopened containers. Retain the formula for one month, clearly labeling it “DO NOT USE” and recording lot numbers from any opened containers used.Public health officials may require the formula for testing.Thoroughly wash any surfaces or items that may have come into contact with the recalled formula using hot, soapy water or a dishwasher.
Washington State typically sees an average of four cases of infant botulism annually,most frequently enough affecting infants under six months of age,though cases can occur up to a child’s first birthday. While the national outbreak has resulted in several hospitalizations, no deaths have been reported to date.
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