Introduction

Botulism is a very rare but life-threatening condition caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria.

These toxins are some ofthe most powerful known to science. They attack the nervous system (nerves, brain and spinal cord) and cause Paralysis (muscle weakness).

Most people will make a full recovery with treatment, but the paralysis can spread to themuscles thatcontrol breathing if it's not treated quickly. Thisis fatal in around 5-10% of cases.

This page covers:

Symptoms of botulism

When to get medical advice

Causes and types of botulism

Treatment for botulism

Preventing botulism

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 30 Nov 2016