Symptoms of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) have been linked to baby formula brands that contain cow’s milk such as Similac and Enfamil. In the United States, more and more premature infants are experiencing the life-threatening effects of this disease.
Leading baby formula manufacturers are being sued by parents across the country for negligence. NEC’s link with this serious medical condition was known to the manufacturers, but they failed to inform parents. Should this happen to your child, you may be able to pursue a product liability claim against the formula manufacturer.
What Is NEC?
During the first two to six weeks after birth, premature infants are likely to develop necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Inflammatory gastrointestinal conditions cause intestinal tissue to die. Bacteria can enter the abdomen as a result of the intestine perforating. Developing NEC at full term can result in congenital disabilities.
Forms of Necrotizing Enterocolitis
There are various forms of necrotizing enterocolitis:
- Premature infants: Infants born before 28 weeks of gestation are most likely to have this condition. The symptoms usually appear within a few weeks of delivery.
- Neonatal units: There have been outbreaks of NEC in neonatal units. A bacteria called E. Coli causes it.
- Transfusions: Within three days of receiving a blood transfusion, about one-third of all premature babies develop NEC.
- Full-term babies: Term infants with congenital heart defects are most likely to develop NEC.
The development of necrotizing enterocolitis has been linked to infant formula by some scientists, doctors and parents. There have been court cases filed regarding this issue.
Factors Contributing to NEC
Some babies develop NEC, while others do not. Premature infants’ immune systems are thought to play a significant role in the development of NEC. The digestive and immune systems of premature infants are weak, making infections difficult to treat.
The blood in the intestines of premature babies may also carry less oxygen. An absence of oxygen can damage intestinal tissue, allowing bacteria to enter the abdomen. There is a prevalence of NEC of almost 10 percent among premature infants.
NEC in preemies may be exacerbated by cow’s milk. Infants who drink cow’s milk can suffer from septicemia caused by bacterial overgrowth in their stomachs. Perforation of the intestinal wall occurs as bacteria multiply.
Symptoms of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Infants
Symptoms of NEC may include:
- Vomit that is yellow or green
- Bloody stools and diarrhea
- Low heart rate
- Swollen, painful abdomen
- Decreased body temperature
- Trouble breathing
- Fatigue
- Problems eating and weight gain
- Blood pressure changes
Lawsuits Against Abbott Labs Are on the Rise
The number of lawsuits against Abbott is increasing. The lawsuits are currently expected to be resolved as multidistrict litigation (MDL), which expedites the resolution in complex cases, increase. Due to the fact that each case is separate, these are not class-action lawsuits.
Among the issues litigated are:
- Misrepresentation of the product
- Failure to warn
- Warranty breach
- Deceptive representation
Diaz Law Firm: Personal Injury Lawyers
The Diaz Law Firm handles product liability claims that harm your family. For a free case review, please contact us at (601) 607-3456 or (800) 459-2222 if you have lost a child or have had one injured by NEC due to using these products. Help is just a phone call away, and we work hard to fight for your rights.