Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. These toxins interfere with the nervous system and can lead to muscle paralysis. Without prompt medical treatment, botulism can be life-threatening, especially when it affects respiratory muscles.

Causes of Botulism

Botulism develops when botulinum toxin enters the body through one of several pathways:

1. Foodborne Botulism

Caused by eating foods contaminated with C. botulinum toxin.Most common sources:

• Improperly canned or preserved foods

• Low-acid home-canned vegetables

• Fermented or smoked foods stored without proper refrigeration

2. Infant Botulism

Occurs when infants ingest spores (often from soil or dust) that grow and produce toxin in the intestines.Honey is a known risk factor and should not be given to infants under 12 months.

3. Wound Botulism

Happens when spores enter a wound and produce toxin inside the body.It can be associated with trauma, surgery, or contaminated injections.

4. Iatrogenic Botulism

Rare cases resulting from excessive or misplaced therapeutic or cosmetic botulinum toxin injections.

5. Inhalation Botulism

Extremely rare; results from inhaling aerosolized toxin.