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Safety and Health Topics: |
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Botulism |
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In the United States an average of 110 cases of botulism
are reported each year. Botulism is a muscle-paralyzing disease caused by a toxin made by a bacterium
called Clostridium botulinum.
Botulinum toxins are some of the most poisonous substances known. Miniscule quantities
are capable of producing disease in
humans.
Cases of botulism are usually associated with consumption
of preserved foods. However, botulinum toxins are currently among the most common
compounds explored by terrorists for use as biological weapons. The following commonly asked questions link to resources that provide
useful information about botulinum toxin.
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Revised: 19
September
2003 |
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