May also be called: Botulism Botulism (BAH-chu-lih-zum) is a rare but serious illness caused by poisons produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. Infant botulism happens when a baby takes in C. botulinum spores (cells made by bacteria), which can grow in the digestive system and produce toxins. More to Know Clostridium botulinum bacteria can be found in soil and dust. If a person gets infected, the bacteria make toxins that make nerves not work as they should, leading to weakness and paralysis. Symptoms of botulism include double vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, trouble swallowing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness. In infants, symptoms include constipation, a flat facial expression, poor feeding, a weak cry, decreased movement, trouble swallowing, excessive drooling, muscle weakness, and breathing problems. If not treated, botulism can cause respiratory (breathing) failure, paralysis, and death. Botulism is usually treated in a hospital with an antitoxin that blocks the toxins produced by the bacteria. In some cases, a breathing machine (ventilator) may be used to help with breathing. Keep in Mind Infant botulism can be fatal. Any child who shows signs of the disease should get medical care right away. Fortunately, infant botulism is extremely rare, with about 100 cases reported in the United States each year. With early diagnosis and proper medical care, most babies fully recover from the illness. All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts. Back to Articles Related Articles Infant Botulism Infant botulism can happen if a baby ingests bacteria that make toxins inside the body. Treatment can help a baby who gets it recover fully. Read More Can I Feed My Baby Honey? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Feeding Your Newborn These guidelines on breastfeeding and bottle feeding can help you know what's right for you and your baby. Read More A to Z: Botulism Learn about bacterial infections, foodborne illnesses, and conditions that affect the nervous system. Read More A to Z: Botulism, Wound Learn about bacterial infections, foodborne illnesses, and conditions that affect the nervous system. Read More Pregnancy & Newborn Center Advice and information for expectant and new parents. Read More A to Z: Botulism, Foodborne Learn about bacterial infections, foodborne illnesses, and conditions that affect the nervous system. Read More Feeding Your 1- to 3-Month-Old Whether you've chosen to breastfeed or bottle-feed your baby, your infant will let you know when it's time to eat. Read More Feeding Your 4- to 7-Month-Old Is your baby is ready for solid foods? Learn how and when to get started. Read More Food Safety for Your Family Why is food safety important? And how can you be sure your kitchen and the foods you prepare in it are safe? Read More Formula Feeding FAQs: Preparation and Storage Check out these formula-feeding bottle basics, from how to mix bottles to how to store them safely. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.