Michigan Product Liability Lawsuits Over Dangerous Baby Formula

Choosing whether to formula feed or breastfeed a baby is a big decision for new parents, and the decision can be fraught. Generally, the formula provides babies with nutrients they need to thrive; however, contaminated products can lead to risky situations. Those who believe that contaminated or unsafe formula caused their babies to suffer injuries should contact a Michigan product liability attorney.

Premature babies require extra nutrition to support their developing systems. Parents should feel confident that companies developing and manufacturing baby formulas take all steps to ensure the quality of their products. In addition to quality control, companies should clearly list all potential risks and side effects of using their products. The failure to do so can lead to life-long or deadly consequences for these vulnerable babies.

Recently, in light of a Centers for Disease Control (CDC) investigation, Abbott Pharmaceuticals recalled more Similac baby formula. The recall comes in response to a tragic situation where a child consumed the formula before getting a severe bacterial infection and dying. The CDC believes the infection may have contributed to the child’s death. The company stated that they found evidence of the bacteria in their Michigan facility but have not discovered any evidence of Salmonella.

The bacteria, Cronobacter sakazakii, can cause severe infections of the membranes that protect the brain and spine. According to the Federal Drug Administration, symptoms of the infection include grunting, irritability, lethargy, rash, and blood in the urine or stool. Cronobacter sakazakii can also lead to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). This serious digestive disease tends to occur in premature babies. NEC generally affects micro-premies, those born before 32 weeks, and it begins to develop about two to four weeks after birth. According to Census data, over 3 million Americans used Enfamil and Similac formulas.

In response, some companies are voluntarily recalling their products. In addition, the FDA announced that consumers should not use powdered infant formulas if:

• The container digit codes are 22 through 37, or if
• The code contains Z2, SH or K8

The FDA advised that the company’s other products are not included in the recalls.

Has Your Baby Suffered Injuries from a Contaminated Product?

Those who believe that their baby suffered an intestinal infection due to milk-based formula should contact an attorney at the Neumann Law Group to discuss their rights and remedies. In addition to Michigan dangerous and defective baby product lawsuits, we also handle motor vehicle accident claims, premises liability cases, medical malpractice, nursing home negligence, and wrongful death cases. Our attorneys understand how traumatizing a premature birth can be on a family, and those companies responsible for contributing to additional complications should be held liable for their negligence. We have helped many families secure compensation for their damages after an accident or illness. Damages in these cases may include payments for medical expenses, ongoing treatment, lost wages, loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and funeral and burial costs. Contact our office at 800-525-6386 to schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney on our team.