If you're a parent struggling to easily find formula for your child, it may be tempting to buy extra when you do locate a supply.
But before you do, health officials have a reminder.
"We really encourage parents to try to get only what you need at the time," said Michelle Compton, the child and family health coordinator at the Peoria City/County Health Department.
She said buying only what you need avoids further exacerbating the shortage.
Peoria City/County Health Department Administrator Monica Hendrickson echoed that sentiment.
"The formula that's sitting in your pantry could have been used for a child today," said Hendrickson. "So try not to stockpile. Get what you need, and make sure there's enough for others."
OSF HealthCare pediatrician Dr. Terry Ho says actions happening on the national level this week, like allowing for more imported formula to enter the U.S., should also ease the shortage.
He recommends shopping via a reputable source if looking internationally for formula.
Ho said "watering down" formula to stretch supply or following online DIY formula recipes aren't recommended, as they could be dangerous to a child's health.
