Fresno Health Alert, Nationwide Infant Formula Recall Linked to Botulism

Valley Children’s Healthcare published an advisory on Nov. 12, 2025 informing parents and caregivers of a nationwide infant formula recall that public health officials have linked to a botulism outbreak affecting infants. The hospital’s pediatric health team advised families to stop using any formula included in the recall immediately and to verify lot numbers and recall notices before giving formula to infants.

The advisory lists symptoms of infant botulism that should prompt medical evaluation. Caregivers are told to seek medical attention if an infant shows lethargy, poor feeding, constipation, weak cry, decreased muscle tone, or breathing difficulty. Valley Children’s guidance also describes when to contact a pediatrician and when to call emergency services, and it outlines safe feeding and storage practices while the recall is ongoing.

Botulism in infants is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that affects the nervous system. Infants can become severely ill and require urgent medical care. The recall and associated outbreak have drawn attention because of the vulnerability of very young children and the central role of infant formula in their nutrition.

For Fresno County families the advisory is immediately relevant. Many parents and caregivers rely on formula at home or in childcare settings. Valley Children’s serves pediatric patients across Central California, and the hospital’s pediatric health section posted the advisory on its news site to reach families quickly. Residents are encouraged to review formula supplies at home, pause use of any product identified in recall notices, and contact their child’s health care provider for guidance on safe feeding options during the recall period.

Local pediatric clinics and emergency departments should prepare to respond to concerned caregivers and to evaluate infants who show the listed symptoms. Health officials typically use recall notices to identify affected lot numbers and to trace distribution. Parents who are unsure whether a product is included in the recall should consult the recall notice posted by the manufacturer and the advisory on Valley Children’s news site for the latest information.

Public health responses will focus on identifying the scope of the outbreak, ensuring affected products are removed from households and retail outlets, and providing clinical care for infants who become ill. Fresno County residents seeking up to date guidance and instructions can find the advisory on Valley Children’s website, and should contact their pediatrician or local emergency services if they observe any of the warning signs described by the hospital.