Thread by @LesleyJLopez

As the mom of an infant, I can't tell you how real the #BabyFormulaShortage has been for our family. Some days I've gone to four stores before finding even one container. It's terrifying. And as president of the @MDWomensCaucus I want to share some resources🧵

So far, I've reached out to @JPenaMelnyk our new HGO chair, AG @BrianFrosh, our @MDHealthDept and the MD chapter of @AmerAcadPeds, and will update this thread w new resources as they become available but for now

from @MDHealthDept: Maryland WIC Program has expanded allowable sizes, brands, and types of formula available with WIC electronic benefits. MDH is in contact with formula manufacturer Abbott Nutrition
to monitor the supply and shipment of formula to Maryland.

MD American Academy of Pediatrics President Dr. Debbie Badawi: "During this challenging time, we encourage families who are struggling to find baby formula to contact their child's primary health care provider." DON'T DILUTE FORMULA

If you are a Maryland WIC participant, contact your
local WIC office for assistance locating products or making changes to your WIC food
benefits.

You can find it here: health.maryland.gov/phpa/wic/Pages…

If you are not a Maryland WIC participant, visit the Maryland WIC website (same as above)
to learn how to apply, or call 1-800-242-4942 to find out if you are eligible for benefits.

Some general guidance from @MDHealthDept:
Do not dilute infant formula. Adding extra water or other liquids to infant formula can be dangerous and life-threatening for babies, leading to serious nutritional deficits and health issues.

Do not use homemade formulas. Formulas made at home often lack the critical nutrients that
babies need.

Use a different brand or type of formula if available. For most babies, it is OK to switch to any available formula. Call your child’s health provider if you have questions.

If feeding a baby with human milk from a source other than the baby's mother, you should only
use milk from a source that has screened its milk donors and taken other precautions to ensure the safety of the milk.

If your baby needs a special formula, your child’s health provider can advise you on a comparable formula to use.
You can also contact a manufacturer’s hotline:
Abbott’s Consumer Hotline: call 1-800-986-8540
Reckitt’s Customer Service line: 1-800 BABY-123 (222-9123)