Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that attacks the bodys nerves. It is caused by a type of bacteria called Clostridium botulinum, which produces the toxin. The toxin can cause muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, and even death. There are several types of botulism, including:

• Foodborne botulism: This occurs when C. botulinum grows and produces toxins in food prior to consumption. It is often caused by eating home-canned foods that have not been canned properly.

• Wound botulism: This occurs when C. botulinum infects a wound and produces toxins.

• Infant botulism: This occurs when infants ingest C. botulinum spores, which germinate into bacteria that colonize in the gut and release toxins. It is different from foodborne botulism caused by ingestion of pre-formed toxins in food.

• Adult intestinal toxemia botulism: This is a very rare kind of botulism that can happen when C. botulinum spores get into the intestines. The spores grow and produce toxins the same way they do in infants. It can happen when a person has a serious health condition that affects their digestive system.

• Iatrogenic botulism: This rare form of botulism can occur when too much botulinum toxin is injected for cosmetic or medical reasons.

Botulism can be fatal and is considered a medical emergency. Treatment typically involves the use of antitoxins to block the toxins activity in the bloodstream.