A comparison of human and animal botulism: a review

Botulism can arise from preformed toxin, wound infection or intestinal toxico-infection. All three forms can occur in humans as well as in animals. The examination of botulism in veterinary practice can alert the medical profession to the hazards which can occur with the introduction of dietary alterations and hermetic sealing of foodstuffs. There is also the possibility that the development of pica through lack of essential nutrients could lead to the ingestion of contaminated substances rendering the child (or even adult) susceptible to botulinum intoxication. A positive gain has been that research leading to the elimination of shaker foal disease has provided a comprehensive analysis of factors which may underline the risk of toxico-infection in infants.