Infant Botulism – Emergency Department, Inpatient and PICU – Considerations for Infants Exposed to ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula

Infant Botulism Clinical Pathway – Emergency Department, Inpatient and PICU

Considerations for Infants Exposed to ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula

  • Symptoms of infant botulism may appear slowly
  • Observe infants for symptoms up to 30 days post-exposure
  • Review History and Physical
Symptoms After Exposure Recommendations
Asymptomatic Monitor at home with return instructions if feeding issues or weakness develops
  • Constipation Reported
    (no stool > 48 hrs)
  • No other symptoms
    • CA Dept. of Health definition: ≥ 2 days without a bowel movement in infant with previously regular stools, in the absence of another cause
  • Refer to primary care, urgent care, or ED for physical examination
  • Close outpatient follow-up, daily check-ins for 3–5 days with return instructions if feeding issues or weakness develops
  • Stool testing not recommended
Any Neurologic Symptoms
  • Refer to ED
  • Refer to pathway