Botulism is a type of food poisoning caused by the organism Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium. It is rare, but can be fatal if contracted. About 5 to 10 percent of incidents of botulism poisoning are fatal, but only about 110 people get botulism in the U.S. every year.
Mechanism
You can get botulism from eating contaminated food or through infected wounds. Babies can also get botulism from intestinal infections. It is not contagious, so you cannot catch it from another person. Botulism food poisoning occurs when the Clostridium botulinum bacterium grows in conditions without oxygen, such as inside sealed cans of food, and produces the dangerous botulism toxin. The toxin is what causes illness, rather than the bacterium itself. The toxin operates by disrupting the functioning of the nervous system.
Symptoms
Extreme fatigue, dizziness and weakness are the earliest signs of botulism food poisoning. As the disease progresses, the affected person will experience a variety of symptoms that may include blurry vision, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, facial weakness, vomiting, abdominal swelling, dry mouth, constipation or diarrhea. Eventually, the muscles become weak and paralyzed, including those involved in breathing. This can lead to death if the individual ceases being able to breathe.
Prevention
Botulism food poisoning can be prevented by proper cooking or preserving of foods, since the botulism toxin can be destroyed by heat. It is especially important to practice proper food safety when home canning or preserving, including heating at temperatures of over 250 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 30 minutes. You should also avoid eating foods from cans that appear damaged, especially those that are bulging.
Response
Botulism food poisoning is considered a medical emergency, since it can lead to death if untreated. Individuals who suspect that they have contracted the disease should report to a hospital immediately. They should also save the food item they suspect harbors the botulism toxin so that it can be tested.
Treatment
The treatment for botulism is to administer an antitoxin. The antitoxin for botulism binds to the toxin and prevents it from damaging nerves. In severe cases, treatment may also involve clearing the digestive tract using medicines that induce vomiting or bowel movements. If breathing is seriously affected, the affected individual may be placed on a mechanical ventilator.
