NAFDAC warns against US-made infant formula over food borne disease
The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control has recalled from the market Abbott Similac Infant Formula, which is manufactured in Sturgis Michigan, United States, over complaints of infant illnesses reported in the US.
NAFDAC, in a notice on Sunday, said four consumers had submitted complaints between September 2021 and December 2021.
NAFDAC explained that Cronobacter bacteria could cause sever and life threatening infection (sepsis) or meningitis. Symptoms might include poor feeding, irritability, temperature changes, jaundice, grunting breaths and abnormal movements in infants.
The infection could also lead to bowel damage and spread through the blood to other parts of the body.
The agency added, “Salmonella bacteria causes gastrointestinal illness, fever called Salmonellosis, which may lead to diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. A sever case of Salmonella infection result in headache, lethargy, rash, blood in the urine or stool, and may be fatal in some cases.
“Parents of infants experiences any of these symptoms after consumption of the recalled Abbott Infant Formula should notify their child’s healthcare provider and seek medical care immediately. Healthcare providers and health departments are encouraged to report any confirmed cases of Cronobacter Sakazaki to the relevant authorities.
“The affected products are Similac Advanced Step 1 Milk-based Iron-Fortified Infant Formula Powder, Similac Advanced Step 2 Milk-based Iron-Fortified and Calcium-Enriched Infant Formula Powder, Similac Alimentum Step 1 Hypo Allergenic Infant Formula Powder, Similac Human Milk Fortifier Powder, Similac Pro-Advanced Step 1 Milk-Based Iron-Fortified and Calcium-Enriched Infant Formula Powder, Similac Sensitive (Lactose Sensitivity) Step 1 Milk-Based Iron-fortified Infant Formula Powder and Similac Total Comfort Step 1 Milk-Based Iron-fortified Infant Formula Powder.
