The FDA has issued a warning to consumers after complaints of Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella Newport infections in infants.

Four infants have been infected in three different states. All of the cases reportedly consumed powder baby formula from Abbott Nutrition's Sturgis, Michigan facility.

Four infants in three different states that have consumed formula from that facility have been hospitalized. Cronobacter infection may have contributed to a death in one case.

The FDA is advising checking labels on Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare powdered infant formulas for any of the following:

  • the first two digits of the code are 22 through 37
  • the code on the container contains K8, SH or Z2
  • the expiration date is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later.

The FDA is investigating the Sturgis, Michigan facility and is working with them to initiate a voluntary recall of the affected formulas.

Products from the facility have been distributed across the United States.

According to the FDA's press release, "Cronobacter bacteria can cause severe, life-threatening infections (sepsis) or meningitis (an inflammation of the membranes that protect the brain and spine). Symptoms of sepsis and meningitis may include poor feeding, irritability, temperature changes, jaundice (yellow skin and whites of the eyes), grunting breaths and abnormal movements. Cronobacter infection may also cause bowel damage and may spread through the blood to other parts of the body."

Symptoms of sickness caused by Salmonella bacteria include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. The FDA says more severe cases of salmonellosis may include a high fever, aches, headaches, lethargy, a rash, blood in the urine or stool, and in some cases, may become fatal.

Caregivers of infants who have consumed the affected products are advised to contact the child's healthcare provider.

Click here for the FDA's full report.