Food-borne botulism
As a result of high standards of food hygiene in the UK, the chances of getting food-borne botulism from food bought in this country are low.
There’s a slightly higher risk if you produce your own food, particularly if this involves canning.
But following food hygiene procedures and canning recommendations will reduce any risk.
Do not eat food from bulging or damaged cans, and avoid eating foul-smelling preserved foods, foods stored at the incorrect temperature and out-of-date foods.
Infant botulism
In many cases of infant botulism, the specific cause is not identified so it may not always be possible to prevent it.
But you should avoid giving honey to babies under the age of 1 as it’s been known to contain Clostridium botulinum spores.
Wound botulism
People who inject heroin can get botulism. This is often through injecting heroin, contaminated with the bacteria, into the skin or muscles.