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01 Nov 2021 | 04:56 PM (IST)

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Botulism

Description

Botulism is a rare but serious illness. The cause of botulism is a toxin (poison) made by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. It occurs naturally in soil.

Three main botulism types are:

1. Foodborne botulism: From eating foods contaminated with the toxin.

2. Wound botulism: From a wound infected with the bacteria. It is more common in heroin users.

3. Infant botulism: When a baby consumes the spores of the bacteria from soil or honey. All forms can be deadly and are medical emergencies.

Signs and Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

1. Double or blurred vision

2. Drooping eyelids

3. Slurred speech

4. Difficulty swallowing

5. Dry mouth

6. Muscle weakness

Treatment

Treatment may include:

1. Antitoxins

2. Intensive medical care

3. Surgery of infected wounds

Prevention

Common ways to prevent botulism are:

1. Be very careful when canning foods at home

2. Do not let babies eat honey until he/she is 1 year old

3. Get prompt medical care for infected wounds

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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