Infant Botulism Cases Detected in Madison County Health Department's Investigation
The Madison County Health Department has issued a local health alert after identifying two cases of infant botulism, a serious illness that can be caused by ingesting honey or inhaling dust contaminated with the Clostridium botulinum bacteria. Symptoms include constipation, trouble feeding, drooping eyelids, and difficulty swallowing. Immediate medical attention is advised, as treatment typically involves hospitalization for 2-4 weeks. The risk of contracting the illness decreases as the infant's gut matures.