What are the types of botulism?

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What are the types of botulism?

There are several different kinds of botulism. Three kinds of botulism are the most common:

Foodborne botulism

Foodborne botulism happens when people eat contaminated foods that already contain the toxin.

Incorrectly processed food may allow the bacteria to grow which then releases the toxin into the food. Home-canned or improperly canned store-bought foods are common sources of foodborne botulism. Other food sources associated with this illness include:

  • Oils infused with herbs
  • Potatoes baked in aluminum foil
  • Cheese sauces
  • Bottled garlic
  • Foods kept warm or left unrefrigerated for too long

Infant botulism

Infant botulism typically occurs when babies ingest bacterial spores which are commonly found in soil or are fed foods which contain the spores, the most common being honey. The spores then become bacteria, which grow inside the baby’s intestines and release toxin.

Older children and adults have natural defenses against colonization, but infants younger than 12 months old don’t have those defenses. For this reason, experts advise that babies shouldn’t eat honey until they are at least 1 year old.

Wound botulism

Wound botulism develops when clostridium bacteria gets into a wound and grows. This type of botulism most often occurs in people who use a needle to inject drugs into their veins. In rare cases, it can also develop after surgery or a serious injury.

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