As the national infant formula shortage continues, Nevada County Public Health Department efforts are underway to help families identify and navigate local resources. Families can continue to check the California Department of Public Health website for updates on the situation.
Locally, the Nevada County Public Health Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program has expanded many infant formula options related to brands and sizes. Staff are closely monitoring local inventories and are directing families to local resources and current stock. Contact WIC directly at (530) 265-1454 for information on either formula options, new formula prescriptions, local resource guidance, and to check eligibility. Families may also check the public WIC website.
The most impacted families continue to be infants and families in need of specialty, premature, and other therapeutic formulas. These families are encouraged to work directly with their health care providers, public health nursing and/or WIC.
- Contact your health care provider to see if they have any samples or can suggest a similar formula more readily available.
- Do not water down formula or make formula at home or use toddler formula to feed young infants; check with the American Academy of Pediatrics or your health care provider if you run out.
- Enroll in WIC. Check the WIC website or call 530-265-1454 to see if your family is eligible.
- Check with the local food bank.
- If already breastfeeding, continue to establish and maintain your supply with the support of a Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and, if possible, consider donating to the Mothers Milk Bank in San Jose, which supplies local hospitals.
WIC is an equal opportunity provider.