Regular infant formulas are not affected and are only affected by the lack of specialized hypoallergenic formulas that are recommended for infants with severe or multiple allergies.
News release
Simco Muskoka District Health Unit
,
Due to supply issues in the United States, the availability of some hypoallergenic infant formulas in Canada is currently limited. Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit (SMDHU) has information about safe dietary options for families affected by deficiency.
Regular infant formulas are not affected and are limited only by special hypoallergenic formulas (eg, Alimentum, Pregestimil, Nutramigen, etc.), which are recommended for infants with severe or multiple allergies. Health Canada is working to reduce the effects of the condition and recommends that these special formulas be used only by infants and children who need them.
Given the circumstances, some families may seek alternative sources of infant nutrition, and may benefit from the following information:
- Homemade formulas are not recommended as they may not provide the proper balance of nutrients that babies need. They may also contain ingredients and allergens or may be prepared in such a way as to result in contamination by harmful bacteria that cause serious illness.
- Informal breastmilk sharing can have risks and babies who require hypoallergenic formulas may not be able to tolerate breastmilk. Sharing unprocessed breastmilk obtained from private sources is not recommended and there are risks that could cause your baby to become ill, including contamination from allergens, viruses, bacteria, drugs, or drugs.
- (re)breastfeeding may be an option for some families and parents should first consult with their healthcare provider whether (re)breastfeeding is an option and intensive breastfeeding with the support of a nutritionist and/or registered dietitian How to get help, including counseling.
If you use hypoallergenic infant formula and are unable to purchase it or have questions, check with your healthcare provider for information about alternative feeding solutions best suited for your baby’s needs. Information about alternative feeding options is also available on the Health Unit website or by calling 705-721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Health Connection weekdays .
Additional resources can be found through Health Connect Ontario, which can be accessed online or by calling 811 to talk or chat online with a registered nurse or lactation specialist. You can also call 211, a free helpline that connects you with community and social services in your area 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in more than 150 languages.
,
