Table of Contents
- Overview
- Symptoms
- Treatment
- Prevention
Botulism immune globulin is the main treatment for this condition. Infants that receive this treatment have shorter hospital stays and less severe illness.
Any infant with botulism must receive supportive care during their recovery. This includes:
- Ensuring proper nutrition
- Keeping the airway clear
- Watching for breathing problems
If breathing problems develop, breathing support, including the use of a breathing machine, may be needed.
Antibiotics do not appear to help the baby improve any faster, and are not needed unless another bacterial infection such as pneumonia develops.
The use of human-derived botulinum antitoxin may also be helpful.
Support Groups
Expectations (prognosis)
Full recovery is expected with early recognition and supportive treatment. Death or permanent disability may result in complicated cases.
Complications
Respiratory insufficiency can develop, requiring assistance with breathing (mechanical ventilation).
Calling your health care provider
Since infant botulism can be life threatening, go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) immediately if your infant has symptoms of botulism.
Previous Section
Review Date: 08/02/2009
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of
Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also
reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
