Infant botulism is a rare, life-threatening condition that causes a slow form of paralysis. It affects infants under one year old.  

Infant botulism differs from botulism in older children and adults as it develops slowly and worsens gradually. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking medical care promptly can make a significant difference in treatment and recovery. Symptoms of infant botulism can include: 

• Respiratory difficulty and possible respiratory arrest 

• Choking when trying to feed 

• Constipation  

• Weak or poor feeding 

• Eyelid drooping 

• Lack of facial expressions, being unable to lift their head, or other signs of muscle weakness or paralysis 

• Weak and altered crying 

• Weakness or decreased muscle tone, which prevents them from reaching or grabbing 

• Changes in bowel movement, such as not pooping for days or weeks at a time 

Since infants cannot express how or what they are feeling, it is essential to recognize and be aware of potential warning signs. 

Infants can contract botulism if they eat something, such as honey, that contains spores from the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which is why infants under a year old should never be given honey. A recent outbreak of infant botulism is suspected to be linked to the contamination of infant formula. When an infant ingests Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria multiply and make a toxin, which disrupts the infant’s nervous system after entering its bloodstream, causing symptoms of botulism.  

Infants under a year old are at a higher risk of contracting botulism, with 95% of cases occurring in infants younger than six months old.  

A healthcare provider can diagnose infant botulism by observing symptoms and performing physical and neurological exams. Testing stool for botulinum toxin is the best way for a healthcare provider to confirm a diagnosis. 

Infant botulism is treatable with an antitoxin called botulism immune globulin, which is administered through an IV.  

The Department of Pediatrics at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare to infants, children, and adolescents. If your infant is experiencing symptoms of botulism, you can make an appointment by calling 718-206-7001.  

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All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.