Familial Cluster of Foodborne Botulism Associated with Homemade Dairy Products: A Case Series
Abstract
Background Foodborne botulism is a life-threatening illness caused by neurotoxins produced by Clostridium botulinum. Although dairy-related cases are rare, they remain a public health concern, especially in regions where traditional food preparation methods are common. Case Presentation This case series describes botulism in three family members—including a pregnant woman—following the consumption of homemade dairy products. All presented with varying degrees of neurological and respiratory symptoms. Two required intubation and intensive care. Laboratory findings confirmed neurotoxin type A in stool and gastric samples. Early administration of a horse-derived trivalent botulinum antitoxin and supportive care resulted in recovery. Conclusion Prompt recognition and treatment are essential for favorable outcomes. This case series underscores the exceptionally rare occurrence of foodborne botulism linked to homemade dairy products, highlighting the clinical and public health significance of early diagnosis and preventive measures.
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Evidence Hub reads this as a case series, done in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health.
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