Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that attacks the body’s nervous system. The bacteria that make the toxin are found in the soil and can live in the intestines of animals, such as cows, pigs, and birds. The bacteria can get into food made from these contaminated animals.
One of the most serious food-borne illnesses is botulism, which can cause paralysis. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to recognize this disease so that you can get help early.
Symptoms include gastrointestinal (abdominal) complaints such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea or constipation, difficulty swallowing, trouble breathing due to dry mouth, fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and dark urine.
People who develop these symptoms should be seen by a doctor right away because people with botulism may not know they have it.