<p>Botulism is a rare but serious illness. The cause is a toxin (poison) made by a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum. It occurs naturally in soil. </p> <p>There are several kinds of botulism. <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/foodborneillness.html">Foodborne</a> botulism comes from eating foods contaminated with the toxin. Wound botulism happens when a wound infected with the bacteria makes the toxin. It is more common in heroin users. Infant botulism happens when a baby consumes the spores of the bacteria from soil or honey. All forms can be deadly and are medical emergencies.</p> <p>Symptoms include double or blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness. Treatment may include antitoxins, intensive medical care, or surgery of infected wounds.</p> <p>To prevent botulism:</p> <ul> <li> Be very careful when canning foods at home</li> <li> Do not let babies eat honey</li> <li>Get prompt medical care for infected wounds</li> </ul> <p class="">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</p>