Infant botulism

​Key facts:

  • Botulism is a rare but serious illness that causes paralysis. 
  • Children under the age of 12 months are most at risk of infection. 
  • Botulism can occur following the ingestion of contaminated food, soil or dust. 
  • The bacteria can contaminate honey and parents are advised not to let babies younger than 12 months eat honey.
  • Parents should immediately call triple zero (000) or go to a hospital emergency department if their baby has any symptoms of botulism.
Last updated: 02 February 2026

​​​​​​​​​​​​What is infant botulism?

Infant botulism is a rare illness, usually only occurring in children less than 12 months of age. Infants get the illness when they swallow a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. The bacteria then makes toxins in the infant’s gut. 

Botulism requires treatment in a hospital. With early diagnosis and proper medical care, a baby should fully recover from the illness.  

What causes infant botulism?

Infant botulism is caused by a toxin (a poison) from C. botulinum bacteria​​​. The bacteria can live in soil and dust and also contaminate honey. This is the reason why parents are advised not to let babies younger than 12 months eat honey.  

Babies are more at risk of botulism than adults because when they swallow the bacteria, their undeveloped gut can allow the bacteria to grow and make the toxin which causes the illness. 

What are the symptoms of infant botulism?

Babies with infant botulism might have:
  • constipation (often the first sign that parents notice)
  • weak facial muscles that makes their face look "flat"
  • a weak cry
  • weak muscles in the arms, legs, and neck, leading to loss of head control and floppiness
  • breathing problems
  • trouble swallowing with a lot of drooling
  • poor feeding
Immediately call Triple Zero (000) or go to a hospital emergency department if you or your child have any of these serious symptoms of botulism.

How is infant botulism diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose infant botulism by asking about the baby's symptoms. They'll do an exam and might order tests to look for the toxin.

How is infant botulism treated?

Babies with infant botulism need care in a hospital, usually in the intensive care unit (ICU). The health care team will try to limit the problems the toxin causes in the baby's body.

Doctors treat infant botulism with a medicine called BabyBIG. BabyBIG stands for Baby Botulism Immunoglobulin. It is given to babies as soon as possible if botulism is suspected. Babies with botulism who get BabyBIG early recover sooner and spend less time in the hospital than babies who don't.

If the toxin affects the breathing muscles, a baby might need to use a breathing machine (ventilator) until they are able to breathe again on their own. Because infant botulism can also affect the swallowing muscles, babies usually need fluids given into a vein through a drip (intravenous or IV therapy) or feedings through a tube to stay hydrated and nourished.

Can infant botulism be prevented?

It is unknown why some infants get botulism while others don't.

One way to reduce the risk of infant botulism is to not give infants less than 12 months honey or any processed foods with honey. Clean and sterilise all bottles given to the infant and avoid contact with soil and dirt. 

What is the public health response?

Laboratories and hospitals are required to notify cases of botulism to the local public health unit. Public health units investigate possible cases to identify the source and prevent further cases. 
 
For further information please call your local public health unit on 1300 066 055.

Call Triple Zero (000) if it’s a life-threatening emergency.

Current as at: Monday 2 February 2026
Contact page owner: One Health