National Toxic Baby Formula Attorneys

Bacterial Infection Sparks FDA Recall

Four complaints that alleged bacterial infection served as the spark behind the recall of Abbott’s baby formula. One baby had been diagnosed with Salmonella poisoning; the other three babies had been infected with a rare bacterium called Cronobacter sakazakii. Sadly, all four babies had to be hospitalized for their conditions. 

There is evidence to suggest that Cronobacter may have contributed to death in one of the complaints.

What Baby Formulas Were Recalled?

The toxic baby formula products under FDA recall all originated from Abbott’s manufacturing facility in Sturgis, Michigan. As mentioned, Abbott did not specify how many units of formula were affected by the recall. Make sure to double-check any baby formula products in your kitchen. 

All the Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare powdered infant formula products under recall have an expiration date of April 1, 2022 or later. They also have a long product number that contains K8, SH, or Z2 and begins with numbers between 22 and 37.

Parents are advised to dispose of any recalled toxic baby formula they have. If you already fed a recalled product to your child, it is recommended that you monitor them for symptoms of bacterial infection and, if needed, see a doctor.

The Dangers of Bacterial Infection

Salmonella Poisoning

Mild Salmonella infection/poisoning, also known as salmonellosis, is marked by symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps

While these symptoms may clear up on their own, it is still not very pleasant for a child to experience. 

Moderate and severe cases of salmonellosis are accompanied by a host of other symptoms, often requiring professional medical treatment:

• High fever
• Blood in urine or stool
• Headaches and body aches
• Rashes
• Weakness or lethargy

Sadly, severe salmonellosis can be fatal.

Cronobacter Sakazakii

Cronobacter sakazakii infection can result in sepsis, which is a potentially fatal blood infection. It may also cause meningitis, a serious condition in which the membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain swell. Cronobacter infection is often fatal. Fortunately, it is also very rare. 

The initial symptoms of Cronobacter infection in babies are:

• Fever
• Crying
• Poor feeding
• Lethargy

Should you suspect that your baby may be suffering from Cronobacter infection, don’t wait to take them to the doctor for help. Like any medical condition, it is easier to treat when you catch it in its early stages.

The Advantages of a Class Action Lawsuit

With so many parents and children affected by Abbott’s toxic baby formula, joining a class action lawsuit may be the best route to compensation for many families. 

A class action lawsuit is a great way to ensure that the judge and jury sees the real impact of the defendant’s (in this case, Abbott’s) negligence. It also provides plaintiffs (those suing) with an advantage during settlement negotiations, increasing their odds of receiving a fair settlement.

Some other benefits of a class action lawsuit are:

• A longer window of time to file a claim
• A more efficient way to handle a legal case
• Strength in numbers

If you are unsure about whether to join the toxic baby formula class action lawsuit or file an individual lawsuit, reach out to Schlesinger Law Offices, P.A. We can help you make an informed decision about your next steps. In a free consultation, our national toxic baby formula lawyers can answer your questions and discuss the various options available to you. 

Call for a Free Consultation

As a manufacturer, Abbott had a duty to you—to all parents—to warn of any dangers of bacterial contamination, as well as to make sure its products were safe for consumption. If your baby suffered harm after ingesting Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare, don’t wait to contact our award-winning law firm.

At Schlesinger Law Offices, P.A., we are not afraid to stand up to big companies and corporations. We are already representing plaintiffs in toxic baby formula lawsuits against Abbott. Let us fight for accountability, justice, and compensation on your behalf. 

Contact our national toxic baby formula attorneys online or at (954) 467-8800 for a free consultation.

Resources:

• CBS Evening News with Norah O'Donnell
• FDA warns against using another powdered baby formula after a 2nd death
• Abbott Recalls More Baby Formula After Another Infant Dies
• At least eight additional babies sickened by recalled formula, lawyer says
• Stop using these baby formulas, the FDA says, after 4 infants are hospitalized