As federal health officials continue investigating a nationwide infant botulism outbreak linked to the recalled ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula, parents and caregivers in Northeast Wisconsin are being urged to check their supplies and halt use of any recalled products immediately.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded the recall this fall to include all ByHeart infant formula products, after an outbreak that has sickened dozens of infants across multiple states. The recall covers all sizes and lot numbers of the product, including cans and single-serve packs, and officials stress these products should no longer be used or sold.

In Wisconsin, the Department of Health Services reports at least one local case of infant botulism connected to the outbreak. That infant has been treated and is recovering, though health officials continue to monitor and investigate.

Parents who find ByHeart formula at home should stop using it and keep the product with its lot number and best-by date in case it is needed for testing. The DHS advises families to wash bottles and surfaces that came into contact with the formula and contact a healthcare provider if any symptoms develop. Symptoms of infant botulism can include constipation, poor feeding, and loss of head control, along with difficulty swallowing and breathing problems.

Because major retailers were still selling recalled formulas in some areas even after the recall notice, local families should be vigilant and double-check products before use.

For families seeking safe, non-recalled formula, several local stores in Door and Kewaunee Counties stock a variety of baby nutrition options (not including recalled formula). Parents unsure about which products are affected can check the FDA’s recall list or call their child’s pediatrician before feeding formula. Health officials also recommend reaching out to programs like WIC for support locating safe, available formula options.