Source: Lehigh Valley Health Network - Healthy You
Publication Date: August 2026
Medical Toxicologist(s): Alex Teshon, MD
Keywords/Topics: botulism, foodborne illness

Lehigh Valley Health Network: Unexpected Sources of Botulism: What to Know and How to Spot the Symptoms

Botulism is a serious illness caused by a toxin made by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. The toxin attacks the nerves and can cause muscle weakness, trouble breathing and paralysis. “Botulism is uncommon, but when it occurs, it’s considered a medical emergency,” says Alex Teshon, MD, a second-year medical toxicology fellow with Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health.

There are several types of botulism, but foodborne botulism is one of the most well-known. It happens when someone eats food contaminated with the toxin. Infant botulism can also occur when babies younger than 1 year old ingest bacterial spores, which is why honey should never be given to infants.

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Botulism is a medical emergency. Anyone with symptoms, especially trouble swallowing, speaking or breathing, should seek immediate medical attention.

Doctors diagnose botulism based on symptoms, physical examination and laboratory testing. Treatment often includes an antitoxin that can help stop the toxin from causing further damage. Some people may require hospitalization or breathing support while the nerves recover.

“The earlier botulism is identified, the better the chances of preventing severe complications,” Dr. Teshon says. “If someone develops neurological symptoms after eating a potentially contaminated food, they should seek care right away.”