California public health officials are investigating an outbreak of botulism linked to a family event that occurred in Clovis, California on June 21 and 22.
Officials with the California Department of Public Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are working collaboratively on the investigation.
During a press conference, Fresno County Interim Health Officer Dr. Reis Vohra said the outbreak is a reminder of how important it is to follow proper guidelines for home canning, since food served at family gatherings is prepared by family members. Symptoms of botulism can take up to 10 days to appear.
Families have been advised not to eat any more of the suspected infected food. Authorities have not said how many people are infected, saying only that several patients are being treated and that about 30 people are infected. At least eight patients are in hospital. Vohra said the scale of the infection is unprecedented.
“Our local health department is working closely with area hospitals, state and national health agencies regarding this outbreak. While the risk to the general population is low, we are actively tracing people who may have consumed contaminated food to ensure they receive timely monitoring and treatment,” Vohra said.
Investigators are gathering information about the circumstances of the incident and the food that was served.
Vohra said the risk to the general public is low but the health department continues to search for people who may have consumed the contaminated food so they can receive timely monitoring and treatment.
Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum and related bacteria. The toxins attack the nerves of the body, causing muscle paralysis, especially of the facial nerve, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing and death. Botulism is acquired by ingesting the toxins through foods that have been improperly canned, preserved, or fermented at home, or through a wound infected with the bacteria.
Symptoms of botulism usually begin with weakness and dizziness, followed by blurred vision, drooping eyelids, and difficulty speaking and swallowing. As the disease progresses, it can cause paralysis that spreads from the upper body to the lower limbs. Anyone experiencing symptoms of botulism is advised to seek medical attention immediately.
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