Botulism Directory

Botulism is a rare, life-threatening poisoning due to a toxin produced the bacterium Clostridum botulinum. The toxin affects the nervous system. There are three forms of botulism: Foodborne botulism occurs when you eat something contaminated with the toxin. It has been linked to improperly canned foods. Infant botulism occurs when a baby swallows spores from the bacteria in dirt or dust. The spores may also be found in honey. (Children under 12 months should not eat honey.) Wound botulism is when the toxin strikes an infected wound. All types of botulism require immediate medical care. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how botulism is contracted, what it looks like, how to treat it, and much more.