The parents of two babies who became sick with infantile botulism are suing ByHeart, the manufacturer of a baby formula that was recalled due to its potential connection to the illness. Stephen and Yurany Dexter, from Arizona, and Michael and Hanna Everett, from Kentucky, allege that the ByHeart formula their infants consumed was defective and that the company was negligent. Their daughters, Rose Dexter and Piper Everett, both four months old, required hospitalization and treatment for botulism.
The outbreak of infantile botulism linked to ByHeart formula began in August, affecting at least 15 infants across a dozen states, although no deaths have been reported. ByHeart issued a nationwide recall of all its products shortly after some batches were initially recalled. Investigations confirmed that a sample from an open can of ByHeart formula fed to an ill infant contained the bacteria that can cause botulism.
The lawsuits claim that both families chose ByHeart formula because they believed it was a healthier, organic alternative. Rose Dexter was hospitalized for nearly two weeks in August, and Piper Everett was admitted to the hospital on November 8th with rapidly worsening symptoms. Both babies have since recovered after receiving a specific IV medication for botulism. Legal representatives for the Dexter family suggest ByHeart could face significant legal challenges, while the company stated it would address legal claims and remains focused on providing recall information to consumers.
