CDC and EFSA have assessed that the current likelihood of exposure to contaminated infant formula is low, and that most affected children appear to have experienced mild symptoms. Recalls are still ongoing, and investigations continue at the national level.

The multi-country recall of several infant formula products – covering different batches, products and brands – began in mid-December following the detection of cereulide, a toxin produced by the bacterium Bacillus cereus. As of 13 February, seven countries have reported investigating the source of gastrointestinal symptoms in infants after the consumption of infant formula products.

Laboratory confirmation is not routinely performed because most clinical microbiology laboratories lack established methods to test for the toxin. In Belgium…