Common Illnesses and Diseases While Travelling and Backpacking  

 

Botulism

Botulism is a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by a nerve toxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum . Botulism is caused by eating foods that contain the botulism toxin. The botulism toxin is destroyed by high temperatures. If food is boiled for 10 minutes before eating this would ensure your safety from this illness.

Manifestations: The classic symptoms begin 18 to 36 hours after eating contaminated food, but they can occur as early as 6 hours or as late as 10 days.

Symptoms of botulism include:
• double vision,
• blurred vision
• drooping eyelids
• slurred speech
• difficulty swallowing
• dry mouth
• muscle weakness
• muscle paralysis of the arms, legs, trunk and respiratory muscles.

Diagnosis and treatment: The toxin and the bacteria can be demonstrated in the contaminated food or in the stomach. Treatment is available.

Prevent botulism by:
• good kitchen hygiene
• ensure canned food has not been tampered with.

 

The contents above, from www.best-backpackers-insurance.co.uk is for information purposes only and cannot substitute for professional health care or any other medical treatment. All users of this website with any health problems should always consult their medical doctor or go directly to a hospital or clinic in their destination before starting any treatment.