Camden Co. Resident Tests Positive For Botulism; Health Officials Investigating

CAMDEN COUNTY, NJ — A Camden County resident tested positive for botulism, officials said Thursday, prompting an investigation into the patient's illness.

Botulism is a rare but serious disease caused by a bacteria-produced toxin that attacks the body's nerves. It's most commonly spread through contaminated food and infected wounds, according to the CDC.

The illness can cause difficulty breathing and muscle paralysis. All forms of botulism can be deadly and are considered medical emergencies.

About 3 to 5 percent of botulism cases are fatal, according to a recent report in the National Library of Medicine.

The Camden County Health Department did not disclose any additional information about the resident or their condition.

"It is important to note that botulism is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person," said County Health Officer Dr. Paschal Nwako. "But the Health Department will continue to monitor the situation and investigate this case."

Symptoms of botulism include:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Muscle weakness
• Double vision
• Drooping eyelids
• Blurry vision
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty breathing
• Difficulty moving the eyes

Signs and symptoms of foodborne botulism may also include:

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea

Signs and symptoms of botulism in infants may include:

• Constipation
• Poor feeding
• Drooping eyelids
• Pupils that are slow to react to light
• Face showing less expression than usual
• Weak cry that sounds different than usual

Here's more info about botulism from the CDC and the New Jersey Department of Health.