BabyBIG, the antidote for infant botulism, saved the life of Alessandro Barbera. A recent epidemic highlighted the importance of this rare treatment.

Alessandro Barbera, a newborn from California, was saved by BabyBIG, the only antidote for infant botulism, a rare and potentially deadly disease. Since the beginning of the outbreak in August, 39 cases have been reported in 18 U.S. states, linked to ByHeart baby formula. BabyBIG, approved in 2003, is an intravenous medication that uses antibodies from plasma donated by volunteers vaccinated against botulism. Dr. Stephen Arnon was the pioneer of this treatment, dedicating his career to finding a solution. Although it costs nearly $70,000 per treatment, BabyBIG has proven effective in reducing the length of hospitalization and the need for ventilators. Production relies on donations, and the program faces challenges in attracting new donors. The current outbreak underscores the urgent need for BabyBIG, with an increase in cases of infant botulism in the U.S. Nancy Shine, a dedicated donor, has received recognition from families whose children have survived thanks to this treatment.