Experienced Chicago NEC Baby Formula Attorneys
When it comes to the health of premature infants, parents must be aware of the risks associated with NEC baby formula. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a disease that primarily affects premature infants, causing inflammation and, in some cases, life-threatening infections. Many cases have been linked to cow’s milk-based formulas like Similac and Enfamil, leading to an increase in baby formula mass torts. If your child has suffered from NEC, working with an experienced attorney can help you pursue justice and compensation.
At Hanna Vander Ploeg, LLC, we are committed to advocating for families affected by necrotizing enterocolitis. With over 40 years of combined experience, our mass torts lawyers have successfully represented families in Chicago, Willowbrook and across Illinois. Our firm understands the complexities of baby formula mass torts and is prepared to hold manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by defective products.
What Is Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)?
NEC is a severe gastrointestinal disease that leads to inflammation and tissue death in premature babies. It can cause serious complications, including perforation of the intestine and life-threatening infections. Research has shown a link between NEC and certain cow’s milk-based formulas, raising concerns about their safety.
Babies born prematurely or with low birth weight are at the highest risk of developing necrotizing enterocolitis. Infants fed cow’s milk-based formulas like Similac and Enfamil instead of breast milk have a higher chance of developing the disease.
Common Symptoms Of NEC
Parents should be aware of the following symptoms in their newborns:
- Abdominal swelling and tenderness
- Feeding intolerance
- Bloody stools
- Lethargy
- Vomiting bile-stained fluids
- Low or unstable body temperature
If your child has exhibited these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention and consult a lawyer to explore your legal options.
Seeking Compensation For NEC-Related Injuries
Families affected by necrotizing enterocolitis may be entitled to compensation, which can cover:
- Medical expenses
- Long-term care costs
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death damages (in fatal cases)
Our skilled mass torts lawyers can help determine what compensation may be available for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions About NEC Baby Formula Lawsuits
If the formula company you trusted caused your preterm infant’s NEC, you may be able to hold the company legally accountable. Reviewing the questions below can help you determine if you can take legal action.
Which baby formulas have been linked to NEC in premature infants?
Testing has connected certain Enfamil formulas released by Mead Johnson and specific Similac formulas released by Abbott Laboratories with NEC development. The specific products implicated so far include:
- Enfamil 24 Calorie Formula
- Enfamil DHA & ARA Supplement
- Enfamil Human Milk Fortifier (Powder, Acidified Liquid and High Protein)
- Enfamil NeuroPro EnfaCare Premature Formula
- Enfamil NeuroPro Gentlease
- Enfamil Nutramigen
- Enfamil Premature Infant Formula (20 Cal with Iron, 24 Cal with Iron, 24 Cal High Protein and 30 Cal with Iron)
- Similac Alimentum
- Similac Alimentum Expert Care
- Similac Human Milk Fortifier (Powder, Concentrated Liquid, Hydrolyzed Protein)
- Similac Liquid Protein Fortifier
- Similac NeoSure
- Similac Special Care (20, 24, 24 High Protein, 30)
These and other formulas based on cow’s milk could create a risk of bacterial septic overload for premature newborns.
My premature baby was diagnosed with NEC after consuming formula. What should I do?
Your first priority should be to ensure that your newborn receives the best possible medical care. You need to stop oral feedings, begin intravenous (IV) nutrition and administer antibiotics under the guidance of a neonatologist.
Maintain detailed records of everything that occurs, including all medical and secondary expenses your family incurs. You can then evaluate your eligibility for a lawsuit against the manufacturer by discussing the matter with a mass tort attorney from the team at Hanna Vander Ploeg, LLC.
Who qualifies to file an NEC baby formula lawsuit?
Parents and other guardians of premature infants diagnosed with NEC may qualify. If your baby was born before 37 weeks, ingested a cow’s milk formula/fortifier, received an NEC diagnosis and experienced complications, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
What evidence do I need to pursue an NEC baby formula claim?
To file an NEC-related formula lawsuit, you must have medical and financial evidence. You need documentation of the child’s premature birth and their use of formula, possibly backed by purchase receipts.
You also need evidence of the infant’s NEC diagnosis and treatment, including proof of any substantial complications. Financial records can validate the damages your family sustained, including medical expenses and lost parental income.
Fight For Justice With A Chicago NEC Baby Formula Attorney
If your child has suffered from NEC due to Similac or Enfamil, our attorneys at Hanna Vander Ploeg, LLC, are ready to fight for you.
We serve families in Chicago, Willowbrook and nationwide. Call 312-883-7623 or fill out our online contact form today for a free consultation, and let us help you pursue justice.