January 16, 2012
Enfamil update
There recently has been a lot of media attention on Enfamil® formula in response to the death of a newborn boy in Missouri. The boy tested positive for Cronobacter (Enterobacter sakazakii), which is a microorganism commonly found in the environment and in hospitals and homes. It also can multiply in powdered infant formula after the formula is mixed with water.
Cronobacter causes severe bacterial sepsis (a severe illness in which the bloodstream is overwhelmed by bacteria) or meningitis (a bacterial infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord) in infants and is diagnosed by a laboratory culture.
Some retailers had removed a batch of Enfamil PREMIUM® Newborn formula from their shelves as a precautionary measure, but no product recall ever was issued. The Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have completed the testing of sealed Enfamil formula samples and confirmed they were negative for Cronobacter and were safe. There is no need to test children taking this formula who are not sick.
There have been 4 cases of Cronobacter (one each in Missouri, Florida, Illinois and Oklahoma) since November 2011, and the FDA and CDC are continuing their investigation into the illnesses. There currently is no evidence that the infections in these children are related. The infants in Missouri and Florida tragically died as a result of the infection, while the infants in Illinois and Oklahoma survived.
The CDC recommends breastfeeding whenever possible. If you are using powdered infant formula for your child, fresh formula should be made up each time the child is fed and any leftovers should be thrown away.
The following recommendations should also be followed to prepare formula safely:
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Wash your hands with soap and water before preparing formula.
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Clean all feeding equipment in hot and soapy water or the dishwasher.
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Prepare only enough formula for one feeding, and give it to the baby right away.
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Follow the manufacturer's directions printed on the label.
For more information, read the FDA press release.
-Kristen Adamo, MS, PA-C, Forest View Pediatrics |
