Latest news with #Clostridiumbotulinum
Daily Mirror
7 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Urgent botulism symptoms alert issued after 'adverse reactions' reported
The UK Health Security Agency issued a warning on Friday afternoon The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning for people to stay vigilant for botulism symptoms after a group experienced "adverse reactions" after cosmetic treatments involving botulinum toxin. Additional cases have surfaced, following those identified in the North East, with recent incidents reported in the East of England and East Midlands, according to the UKHSA. From June 4 to July 14, 2025, there have been 38 reported instances of iatrogenic botulism. No direct connection has been established between the new cases and those from the North East, the UKHSA confirmed. Ongoing investigations hint at the use of an unlicensed Botox alternative. It is understood that the practitioners implicated in these latest events have halted their services and are actively participating in the investigation. Reported reactions include difficulties with swallowing, slurred speech, and severe breathing issues necessitating respiratory aid. In response, the UKHSA has issued advice nationally to healthcare professionals to be on the lookout for botulism signs in patients who've recently undergone cosmetic procedures, ensuring timely administration of the necessary anti-toxin treatment. The agency is also urging the public to exercise caution when opting for aesthetic treatments, emphasising the importance of verifying the licensing status of the products used. Dr Gauri Godbole, a consultant medical microbiologist at UKHSA, said: "We are working closely with our partners to reduce the public health risk and would advise people to make sure they take precautions when seeking aesthetic procedures. Botulism related to aesthetic procedures is rare, but it can be serious. It is caused by toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. These toxins (but not the bacteria) are the active ingredient in 'Botox' and similar products. "Symptoms of botulism can take up to four weeks to develop and if you have had a recent botulinum toxin (Botox-like) treatment and are having symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or breathing, contact NHS 111 for further advice and seek treatment. "If you are considering having a cosmetic procedure, please make sure to check that your practitioner is using a licensed product. there is more information on what sensible steps you can take when finding a practitioner on the NHS website." Professor Meghana Pandit, co-national medical director, secondary care, at NHS England, said: "When these procedures go wrong, there is a risk of serious infections and permanent scarring, which is why only registered professionals like a doctor, a nurse or pharmacy prescriber should be prescribing these treatments. "If you decide to undergo a cosmetic procedure like Botox or lip fillers, there is advice on the website on the questions to ask, including making sure that the person administering it is trained to do it." Dr Alison Cave, MHRA chief safety officer, added: "Public safety is a top priority for the MHRA. Botulinum toxin is a prescription-only medicine and should only be sold or supplied in accordance with a prescription given by an appropriate practitioner such as a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional. "Buying botulinum toxin in any other circumstances significantly increases the risk of getting a product which is either falsified or not licensed for use in the UK. This means that there are no safeguards to ensure products meet the MHRA's standards for quality and safety. As such, they can endanger the health of the people who take them. "Our Criminal Enforcement Unit works hard to identify those involved in the illegal trade in medicines and takes robust enforcement action where necessary. This can include criminal prosecution." Symptoms of botulism double vision difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) With aesthetic treatments gaining popularity on the high street, the UKHSA has suggested that anyone considering such procedures should follow a straightforward checklist to ensure safety. If you suspect that you're experiencing a side effect from a botulinum toxin product, it's crucial to consult with your doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme. This can be done either through or by using the MHRA Yellow Card app, which is available for download on Google Play or the Apple App Store. The MHRA's FakeMeds campaign offers guidance to UK residents contemplating purchasing medication online, detailing how to access products from safe and legitimate sources.
Newsweek
16-07-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
Nationwide Fish Recall as Consumer Warning Issued
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A New York-based company has issued a nationwide recall for a fish product because it was found to be uneviscerated, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced. Krasnyi Oktyabr Inc. USA issued a voluntary recall for its Aral Silver Vobla fish on July 15. The product is sold at retail stores nationwide and comes in clear plastic vacuum-packaged bags with a blue label. Newsweek reached out to Krasnyi Oktyabr Inc. USA for comment via email outside of regular working hours. Why It Matters Uneviscerated fish—those that have not been fully gutted—have been linked to outbreaks of botulism, according to the FDA. The bacteria Clostridium botulinum are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than in any other part of a fish. The FDA warns that botulism is a rare but serious illness that can cause difficult breathing, muscle paralysis and even death. Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, double vision, drooping eyelids, blurry vision, slurred speech, difficulty breathing and difficulty moving the eyes. Other symptoms in foodborne botulism can include vomiting, nausea, stomach pain and diarrhea. Stock image of fish for sale. Stock image of fish for sale. Aaron M. Sprecher/AP What To Know The product impacted by the recall is Dry Salted Vobla Aral Silver. Each package contains two whole fish and has a label stating: "Product of Kazakhstan." The recall was initiated after routine testing by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, and subsequent analysis by the NYS Food Laboratory revealed that the product had not been fully eviscerated before processing. As of July 15, no illnesses had been reported in connection with the consumption of the product. What People Are Saying The FDA, on its website: "The bacteria that make botulinum toxin are found naturally in many places, but it's rare for them to make people sick. These bacteria make spores, which act like protective coatings. Spores help the bacteria survive in the environment, even in extreme conditions. "The spores usually do not cause people to become sick, even when they're eaten. But under certain conditions, these spores can grow and make one of the most lethal toxins known." It adds: "For example, improperly home-canned, preserved, or fermented foods can provide the right conditions for spores to grow and make botulinum toxin. When people eat these foods, they can become seriously ill, or even die, if they don't get proper medical treatment quickly." The World Health Organization, on its website: "Foodborne botulism is a serious, potentially fatal disease. However, it is relatively rare. It is an intoxication usually caused by ingestion of potent neurotoxins, the botulinum toxins, formed in contaminated foods. Person to person transmission of botulism does not occur." What Happens Next The recall is ongoing. People who experience symptoms matching those of botulism should seek medical attention immediately. Consumers who have purchased the affected product should not eat it, and are urged to return it to its place of purchase for a full refund.
Hindustan Times
14-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
US neurologist advises Americans to avoid these 3 common foods to keep their brain sharp and healthy
Mental fitness is as important as physical fitness! When it comes to protecting brain health, most people think of eating leafy greens and omega-3-rich fish. But some foods may do more harm than good, especially when they harbour dangerous neurotoxins or brain parasites. Neurologist lists foods to avoid for better mental fitness. Dr Baibing Chen, a neurologist and professor at the University of Michigan, has witnessed terrifying effects of these foodborne threats in his career. In a video on TikTok, he has listed three specific foods he personally avoids no matter how appetising they may seem, according to New York Post. (Also read: Is it just a headache? Neurologist shares 6 warning signs you shouldn't ignore ) Tropical reef fish Dr Chen, in the video, said that he relishes fish but avoids consuming large tropical reef species like barracuda, grouper, or amberjack. He explains these fishes can contain ciguatoxin, a potent neurotoxin which accumulates in predatory reef fish. He warned that ciguatoxin is heat-stable and no matter how well the fish is cooked, it will not be destroyed. Ciguatoxin poisoning symptoms include tingling, dizziness, hallucinations, reversed temperature sensation and it could even cause chronic nerve damage. It is frequently misdiagnosed, and cases are on the rise in tropical regions. The health expert has advised sticking to safer fish varieties and avoiding the liver or roe of large reef fish. Damaged tin cans Dr Chen said he avoids consuming food from tins that have dents and urged people to throw out any tin cans that are bulging, cracked, or badly dented. This is because such products could be contaminated with botulinum toxin, he added. Also Read: NHS doctor shares '5 everyday habits that are ageing your brain': Doom scrolling to skipping meals, especially breakfast The toxin, produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, is one of the most lethal neurotoxins which can cause paralysis and even death. Dr Chen explained that botulinum toxin is odorless and tasteless, while heating the food nay not necessarily destroy it. 'When in doubt, throw it out,' he noted. Undercooked pork Dr Chen added that eating undercooked pork, especially from unregulated sources, carries the risk of neurocysticercosis, a parasitic infection caused by tapeworm eggs which can lodge in the brain. He highlighted that neurocysticercosis is one of the leading causes of acquired epilepsy worldwide, stressing that fully cooking pork to a safe internal temperature is essential, especially for those with weakened immune systems. What else does Dr Baibing Chen promote for brain health? In an interview with CNBC, he shared four habits he practices to better brain health and memory. He cautioned against over-relying on GPS since it can weaken spatial memory. Secondly, he warned against excessive energy drink consumption which could lead to cardiovascular issues and neurological problems like insomnia and anxiety. Also Read: Neurosurgeon explains how 'brain health is pretty easy to achieve', reveals foods to eat: Dark chocolate, fish, broccoli Additionally, he talked about the risks of overusing over-the-counter medications, saying that excessive use of OTC medicines like Pepto-Bismol can lead to dementia-like symptoms and that high zinc intake could cause spinal cord injuries. FAQs What is ciguatoxin, and why is it dangerous? Ciguatoxin is a neurotoxin found in some tropical reef fish. It causes neurological symptoms like tingling, hallucinations, and reversed hot/cold sensations, while cooking the fish doesn't eliminate it. How can I tell if a tin can is dangerous? Avoid any cans that are bulging, cracked, or severely dented, as they could contain botulinum toxin, which is deadly and undetectable by taste or smell. What is neurocysticercosis? It's a brain infection caused by ingesting tapeworm eggs, usually from undercooked pork. It can lead to seizures and is a major cause of epilepsy worldwide. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
14 high risk leftover food items you should never store in the fridge
When it comes to leftovers, it's essential to prioritise food safety to avoid foodborne illnesses. While many dishes can be safely stored and reheated, some leftovers pose a higher risk and should be handled with extra care, or avoided altogether. Factors like improper storage, reheating, or the nature of the food itself can push certain items into the "danger zone," where harmful bacteria thrive. These risks increase with foods high in moisture, dairy, or protein. To protect your health, it's important to know which leftovers may no longer be safe to eat. Avoid storing these food items in the fridge 1. Cooked rice : Can contain Bacillus cereus, which can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea. Refrigerate cooked rice promptly and consume within three days. 2. Egg-based dishes: Salmonella bacteria can survive initial cooking temperatures and multiply rapidly in egg-based dishes during storage 3. R eheated mushrooms: Certain mushroom proteins break down during storage and become harmful when reheated, potentially causing digestive distress and neurological symptoms. 4. Potato salad: Mayonnaise-based salads can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not stored properly. 5. Cream-based soups and sauces: Can separate and become grainy when frozen or reheated. 6. Mixed fruit salads: Different fruits release enzymes and acids at varying rates, creating an unstable environment that promotes harmful microorganism growth. 7. Cooked pasta with oil-based sauces: Oil prevents proper heat penetration during reheating, leaving cold spots where bacteria can survive and multiply. 8. Leftover gravy and pan drippings: Meat-based gravies can be a rich environment for bacterial growth if not stored safely. 9. Bean and legume mixtures: Can be a good breeding ground for bacteria if not handled properly. 10. Cooked garlic in oil preparations: Can be susceptible to Clostridium botulinum growth if not stored correctly. 11. Mayonnaise-based sandwich spreads: Can separate when frozen, resulting in an unappetizing texture 12. Stuffing and bread-based side dishes: Can harbor bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli due to the combination of bread, broth, vegetables, and sometimes raw eggs. 13. Mixed seafood and dairy: Seafood proteins break down faster than other meats, and when mixed with dairy, the combination accelerates spoilage. 14. Leftover sushi and raw fish preparations: Raw fish can harbor bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, making it crucial to handle and store them safely. Also read | Stop! Never cook these 9 foods in your air fryer
Scottish Sun
23-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Urgent ‘do not eat' warning to Scots shoppers over fears popular product could cause serious food poisoning
The product could cause a 'serious form of food poisoning' - and in some cases, it can even be fatal 'UNSAFE' PRODUCT Urgent 'do not eat' warning to Scots shoppers over fears popular product could cause serious food poisoning Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A POPULAR condiment has been pulled from shelves in Scotland over fears it could cause "serious" food poisoning. Scots have been warned not to eat Trotter's Fresh Wild Garlic Pesto after the Food Standards Agency (FSA) deemed it to be "unsafe". Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 Trotter's Fresh Wild Garlic Pesto has been marked 'unsafe' to eat Credit: TROTTER'S The jars from Fife-based Trotter's Independent Condiments are sold at several stores along the east coast and central belt. However, the health company claimed on its website that while it was being manufactured, there weren't the correct procedures in place. The procedures in question control the growth of the bacteria Clostridium botulinum, which produces dangerous toxins under low-oxygen conditions. According to the World Health Organisation, botulinum toxins are one of the most lethal substances known. It can cause a 'serious form of food poisoning' - and in some cases, it can even be fatal. Homemade canned, preserved or fermented foodstuffs are a common source of botulism. The product could be unsafe... If you have bought the product, do not eat it Food Standards Agency This means their preparation requires extra caution, or there is a higher risk of the product causing potentially deadly food poisoning. However, the FSA has revealed that satisfactory manufacturing controls could not be demonstrated. As a result, the health experts have urged Scots not to eat the product. The warning covers jars with a pack size of 230g with all best-before dates. Food Safety Alert: Canned Tuna Recall Under Scrutiny The FSA released a statement which said: "Consumers in Scotland are being advised not to eat Trotter's Independent Condiments 'Trotter's Fresh Wild Garlic Pesto' because of concerns over an absence of procedures in place to control the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. "Satisfactory manufacturing controls that prevent the growth and toxin production by Clostridium botulinum could not be demonstrated. "This means that the product could be unsafe. "Clostridium botulinum may produce a toxin which can cause a serious form of food poisoning called botulism and can be fatal. "If you have bought the product, do not eat it." The pesto can be picked up at the following stores: Loch Levens Larder – Kinross Ardross farm shop – Elie, East Fife Balgove Larder – St. Andrews St. Andrews Farmhouse Cheese Co George Mewes Cheese Shop – Edinburgh, Glasgow Dunkeld Smokehouse Dunkeld Deli (The Scottish Deli) Glendoick Garden Centre – Perth, Dundee Cranachan and Crowdie – Edinburgh Hopetoun Farm Shop -South Queensferry Hilary's Deli – Haddington (Edinburgh) Cairnie Fruit Farm The pesto can be used and eaten in several ways, including being added to pasta salad, pesto pasta, or mixed with cream cheese to create a dip. It can also be used for garlic bread, over grilled chicken, or over sautéed green beans.
