Argentina: Botulism outbreak in Puerto Iguazú linked to pickled eggplant
The Ministry of Public Health reports on a botulism outbreak in the northeast Argentina city of Puerto Iguazú.
According to officials, four people were affected—three women and a four-year-old girl, members of different families, who were visiting in Puerto Iguazú.
The botulism is reportedly linked to tainted pickled eggplant.
The victims are from Salta, Formosa, San Luis and the province of Buenos Aires. All were hospitalized in intensive care, with respiratory assistance.
All of them were given the anti-botulinum serum and now it remains to wait for their evolution.
More than 20 people participated in the family gathering, but a few consumed the homemade product, according to the director of Epidemiology of the Ministry of Public Health of Misiones, Javier Ramírez.
Because it was not a commercial product, Ramirez says there is no risk for the rest of the community.
Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. When ingested, the toxin attacks the body’s nerves. Symptoms typically start with muscle weakness in the face and neck, and then spreads to the torso, arms, and legs. The toxin weakens muscles used for breathing which can lead to death. It is important that anyone ill with symptoms of botulism visit a health care provider immediately to be assessed.