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Health: What is botulism?
Five new cases of botulism were reported on Monday, September 9, one year after the Bordeaux tragedy which left one person dead.
(France 2)
Five new cases of botulism were reported on Monday, September 9, one year after the Bordeaux tragedy which left one person dead.
Botulism is a food poisoning caused by a bacteria that secretes powerful toxins. Symptoms generally appear between 12 and 72 hours after consuming the contaminated food. The Regional Health Agency calls for the utmost vigilance. In the event of symptoms (vision problems, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, difficulty speaking), people who have consumed this food are advised to consult a doctor.
Botulism can be fatal in 3% of cases, as in September 2023 in Bordeaux where a woman died after eating canned sardines. In most cases, botulism can be treated. To avoid botulism, strict hygiene conditions or food preparation, cooking and preservation must be respected. Especially for artisanal or homemade preserves.