Infantile Botulism: Clinical Manifestations, Treatment, and the Role of the Nurse Practitioner

Clostridium botulinum, a toxin most commonly found in soil and honey products, is the main source of infantile botulism. Botulinum toxin is one of the most deadly substances that can attack the neuromuscular system, resulting in a wide range of sequelae. A high index of suspicion is crucial in promptly diagnosing and treating infantile botulism because of the potential for abrupt progression into respiratory failure. This article discusses the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical manifestations of infantile botulism, as well as the valuable role the nurse practitioner plays in preventing this disease within the pediatric population.