"Getting sick from Cronobacter does not happen often, but infections in infants can be deadly. Learn what steps you can take to protect your baby from getting sick.
Cronobacter sakazakii, formerly known as Enterobacter sakazakii, is a germ found naturally in the environment. The germs can live in dry foods, such as powdered infant formula, powdered milk, herbal teas, and starches. Anybody can get sick from Cronobacter, but infection occurs most often in infants.
Rare but Serious Illness in Infants
Cronobacter infections are rare, but they can be deadly in newborns. Infections in infants usually occur in the first days or weeks of life. About four to six cases are reported to CDC every year, but this figure may not reflect the true number of illnesses because state health departments are not required to report Cronobacter infections.
Cronobacter germs can cause a dangerous blood infection (sepsis) or make the linings surrounding the brain and spinal cord swell (meningitis). Infants 2 months of age and younger are most likely to develop meningitis if they get sick from Cronobacter. Other infants more likely to get sick are those born prematurely and those less able to fight germs and sickness due to illness or medical treatment, such as chemotherapy for cancer.
The first symptom of Cronobacter infection in infants is usually a fever, accompanied by poor feeding, crying, or very low energy. You should take an infant with these symptoms to the doctor..."cronobacter infection
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