Pierce County infant diagnosed with botulism, potentially linked to recalled baby formula
Nov 17, 2025, 4:21 PM
This undated image provided by ByHeart shows ByHeart formula products.(Photo courtesy of ByHeart via The Associated Press)
(Photo courtesy of ByHeart via The Associated Press)
An infant in Pierce County was diagnosed with botulism last week, which is potentially linked to a national baby formula recall from Nov. 11.
The infant reportedly consumed the ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula and is currently being treated at a local hospital. Testing will be conducted to determine the diagnosis, the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPHD) announced.
Parents and guardians are urged to immediately stop using all lots of the ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula sold in 24 oz. cans and 0.6 oz. “anywhere” single-serving packets.
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Pierce County infant botulism case latest after baby formula recall
Since August, there have been at least 23 cases of botulism tied to the recalled baby formula across 13 states. One of the cases included an infant who lived in Lewis County at the time of the exposure.
Despite infant botulism being potentially fatal, no infant deaths have been reported as of Nov. 14, though several infants have been hospitalized.
“If your child consumed this formula and later develops symptoms of botulism, please contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency care,” TPHD Officer Dr. James Miller said. “We do not know of any cases linked to other brands of infant formula.”
TPHD noted infant botulism is a rare illness that can cause various symptoms, including constipation, poor feeding, loss of muscle tone, and a weak or altered cry. If left untreated, the infant can be susceptible to paralysis, trouble breathing, and death. All symptoms can take several weeks to develop.
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