Key points
CDC, public health officials in several states, the California Department of Public Health Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, are investigating a multistate outbreak of infant botulism linked to infant formula. Infant botulism happens when a baby swallows Clostridium botulinum spores that grow in the gut and make toxin. Infant botulism often starts with constipation but is usually first noticed as difficulty feeding (sucking and swallowing), a weak and altered cry, and lack of head control.
