OLYMPIA, WA — The Washington State Department of Health is urging parents to check their infant’s formula after three brands were linked to a potentially deadly bacterial contamination.

All three infant powdered formula products were produced at Abbott Nutrition’s Sturgis facility in Michigan. They include Similac, Alimentum, and EleCare brand formulas.

According to the DOH, the bacteria infection was discovered after several young children contracted illnesses related to Cronobacter sakazakii and Salmonella bacteria contamination. At least four infants have been hospitalized, and one has died.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the CDC are working to alert as many consumers as possible. The FDA is warning parents not to use Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formula if:

• The first two digits of their codes are 22 through 37
• The code on the container contains K8, SH or Z2
• And the expiration date is 4-1-2022 or later.

“Washington WIC is in the process of alerting local WIC providers and WIC participants of the voluntary recall,” the DOH said. “If you have one of these cans, you SHOULD NOT use the formula.”

The contaminated product should be returned to the store. If that doesn’t work, customers can also contact Similac at www.similacrecall.com, or by calling 1-800-986-8540.

Symptoms of cronobacter bacteria infections include:

• Poor feeding
• Irritability
• Temperature changes
• Jaundice
• Grunting breaths
• Abnormal movements
• Bowel damage

Salmonella, meanwhile, can cause diarrhea, fever, vomiting and dehydration. If your child shows symptoms of either infections after consuming the powdered formula, contact a health care provider immediately.