09/01/2025
🦠 Key Facts About Cronobacter
• Where it’s found: It can live in dry foods like powdered infant formula, powdered milk, starches, and even herbal teas.
• How babies get exposed: Most cases in infants are linked to powdered infant formula that has been contaminated (either during manufacturing or at home during preparation).
• Who is most at risk:
• Premature babies
• Infants under 2 months old
• Babies with weakened immune systems
🚨 Why It Matters
Cronobacter infections in young infants can cause:
• Sepsis (bloodstream infection)
• Meningitis (infection of the brain and spinal cord)
• Can be life-threatening if not treated quickly
🍼 Breastfeeding & Feeding Considerations
• Breastfeeding significantly lowers the risk, since breast milk isn’t a source of Cronobacter.
• For formula-fed infants:
• Use ready-to-feed liquid formula whenever possible (sterile).
• If using powdered formula, prepare carefully:
• Wash hands well
• Use clean bottles/nipples
• Mix with hot water (≥158°F / 70°C) to kill bacteria, then cool safely
• Store prepared formula in the fridge, use within 24 hours
✅ Takeaway for Parents
Cronobacter is rare but serious. The best prevention is exclusive breast feeding and safe formula preparation. If a newborn develops fever, poor feeding, unusual fussiness, or lethargy, they need immediate medical care.
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