Posted by: Mike Patrick, MD on May 27, 2026


Botulism is a disease caused by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. This bacteria produces a substance called botulinum toxin, which works at the cellular level, causing muscle paralysis.

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Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

Latest Posts

Mother breastfeeding her baby.

Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding: Working Through the Challenges

Apr 14, 2026

Breast/chestfeeding offers powerful benefits for babies and parents—but the early weeks can come with real challenges. Learn what’s normal, when to get help for issues like latch pain or delayed milk, how often babies should feed, and why combination feeding can still provide meaningful benefits. Read More

mother breastfeeding infant

Should Parents with Diabetes Breastfeed?

Apr 13, 2026

Parents who have diabetes of any kind are similar to other new parents in many ways. But according to a study here at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, they are less likely to breastfeed their newborn baby in the hospital and continue breastfeeding for at least two months. Read More

Breast pumps

Underproduction of Human Milk: How to Increase Your Supply

Apr 08, 2026

How much is “enough” human milk? The answer is not a number, because it is different for each parent. “Enough” is the volume needed to feed your baby. Read More

Frozen breast milk packaged in plastic bags.

Overproduction of Human Milk: Can Anything Be Done?

Mar 27, 2026

Women with too much milk may have just as many problems as women who don’t have enough and they might feel just as guilty about their supply, but for different reasons. These women shouldn’t have to suffer in silence. Read More

Safe sleep for babies

Safe Sleep Questions: You Asked, We Answered

Feb 16, 2026

Learn more about safe sleep practices from our Neonatology expert, Gail Bagwell, DNP, APRN, CNS.  Read More

baby sleeping

The Scoop on SUID

Feb 13, 2026

SUID is a broad term for infant death that includes Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), accidental suffocation and undetermined/unknown cause of death.  Read More

doctor examining a young patient

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Pediatrician

Feb 10, 2026

When you are expecting your first child, there are numerous decisions to be made. The list seems endless. Choosing which pediatrician will care for your sweet newborn should be near the top of the list. Read More

infant lying down

Infant Sleep Machines May Damage Hearing

Feb 06, 2026

Sleep machines can help babies rest — but some may play sounds too loudly for tiny ears. Learn what research shows about infant hearing risks and how to choose safer sleep sound options for your child. Read More