THE Ministry of Health has issued an international health alert warning parents about possible contamination of a baby formula brand, ByHeart Whole Nutrition, which has been linked to multiple cases of infant botulism abroad.
In a statement released through its Chemistry Food and Drugs Division, the ministry on Monday stated that information from the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) indicates that ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula has been associated with several cases of infants becoming ill.
Infant botulism is a rare but serious illness. According to the Ministry, symptoms can include:
- Poor feeding
- Loss of head control
- Difficulty swallowing
- Decreased facial expression
Parents and caregivers are being urged to seek immediate medical attention if an infant has consumed ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula and displays any of these symptoms. The Ministry also cautioned that signs of infant botulism may take several weeks to appear, and advised continued vigilance among those using the product.
Although ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula is not currently listed for sale in Trinidad and Tobago, health officials said the advisory is being issued out of an abundance of caution, as some consumers may have purchased the product online.
The public is advised to:
- Immediately stop using the product if it is in their possession
- Consult a physician if the product has been used or if any adverse effects are noticed
- Return the product to the point of purchase, where possible
For more information, members of the public can contact the Office of the Chemistry Food and Drug Division at (868) 217-4664 Ext. 13121.
