COLUMBUS — The Ohio Department of Health said that department officials are asking for more flexibility as families struggle to find baby formula.
Ohio’s Women, Infant and Children program contracts with Mead Johnson, not Abbott who is experiencing the shortage, according to a release.
The health department has applied for USDA waivers to possibly extend even more flexibilities to families buying baby formula using WIC benefits.
WIC currently has waivers in place to add other formula choices and size options for impacted specialty formulas.
>> Biden invokes Defense Production Act for formula shortage
ODH shared recommendations and precautions for families during the shortage such as:
- If you rely on WIC benefits for your formula and are unable to locate it at a WIC vendor, consider going to a non-WIC store to purchase formula with your SNAP or TANF benefits.
- Consult with your infant/child’s healthcare provider for specific nutrition recommendations as they will know best what is right for your child.
- Call the store to ask about product availability, if it is not on the shelf as a store associate for assistance
- Never dilute your formula. Diluting infant formula with water or other liquids can be dangerous and even life-threatening for babies.
- If you need help increasing milk supply, reach out to WIC for help or call the 24/7 Breastfeeding Hotline at 888-588-3423 or text “BFHOTLINE” to 839863.
Families can contact the state WIC at 1-800-755-GROW (4769) for assistance.
©2022 Cox Media Group
